I have a delightful holiday treat for you straight from the heart of Denmark! These Smørbagte Julespecier Butter Christmas Cookies are a cherished tradition, loved for their rich buttery flavor and delicate texture. Perfect for festive gatherings, these cookies are sure to bring comfort and joy to your home this holiday season.
**Smørbagte Julespecier Butter Christmas Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Granulated sugar, for rolling
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cardamom, and cinnamon.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about a 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
9. Repeat with the second portion of dough, rerolling scraps as needed.
10. Before baking, sprinkle the cookies with granulated sugar for a festive touch.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
12. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
These Smørbagte Julespecier Butter Christmas Cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa by the fireplace. The delightful blend of butter, spices, and sweetness encapsulates the essence of holiday baking in Denmark. Let the aroma of these cookies waft through your home, creating a cozy atmosphere that welcomes the joy of the season.
Enjoy the process of baking these Danish Christmas treats and savor the magic they bring to your home. Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with warmth, love, and delicious treats!
