During the festive season in Denmark, the air is filled with the scent of delicious baked treats that bring warmth and joy to every home. One such traditional Christmas delight is the Mørdejskranse, also known as Shortcrust Rings. These delicate and buttery Danish shortbread cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or for serving at holiday gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe for these delightful treats that are sure to become a favorite in your home this holiday season.
**Mørdejskranse Shortcrust Rings**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten
– Assorted colored sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms. You may need to use your hands to bring the dough together.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Using a round cookie cutter, cut out circles from the dough.
7. Take each circle of dough and shape it into a ring by gently pressing the two ends together. Place the rings on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Brush the tops of the shortcrust rings with the beaten egg, which will give them a shiny finish once baked.
9. If desired, sprinkle the assorted colored sprinkles over the rings for a festive touch.
10. Bake the Mørdejskranse in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Remove the shortcrust rings from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, store the Mørdejskranse in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.
These delightful Mørdejskranse Shortcrust Rings are a lovely addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their simple elegance and buttery flavor make them a popular choice among both young and old alike. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireside or given as a thoughtful homemade gift, these Danish cookies are sure to bring a touch of Scandinavian charm to your Christmas celebrations. So, gather your loved ones and create some sweet memories in the kitchen with this delightful recipe.
