Brunkager Danish Gingerbread Cookies

Brunkager Danish Gingerbread Cookies are a beloved Christmas tradition in Denmark, filling homes with the warm aromas of spices and sweetness. These delightful cookies feature a perfect balance of traditional holiday flavors, making them a must-have treat for the festive season. Whether you’re looking to add a Scandinavian touch to your holiday baking or simply craving a delicious gingerbread cookie recipe, this Brunkager recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup white sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup chopped candied orange peel

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.

3. Fold in the chopped almonds and candied orange peel until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The almonds add a delightful crunch while the candied orange peel provides a burst of citrus flavor.

4. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.

6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

7. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will continue to crisp up as they cool.

8. Store the Brunkager Danish Gingerbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. These cookies also make wonderful edible gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

Brunkager Danish Gingerbread Cookies are a delightful addition to any Christmas cookie platter, bringing a taste of Denmark’s rich holiday traditions to your home. Enjoy these spiced, crunchy cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy winter treat. Whether you’re baking these cookies for a festive gathering or simply to enjoy with loved ones, the warm flavors and nostalgic aroma of these Danish delights are sure to create cherished memories for years to come.