Honningkaker Honey Cookies

If you’re looking to add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your Christmas baking this year, consider trying your hand at making Honningkaker, delightful honey cookies that are a staple in Norway during the festive season. These sweet treats are not only delicious but also bring a cozy warmth to your home with their subtle hints of spices and honey. Whether you’re planning a holiday cookie exchange or simply want to indulge in some homemade goodies, these Honningkaker Honey Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.

**Honningkaker Honey Cookies**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– Sliced almonds (optional, for decoration)

**Instructions:**
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the honey until it becomes thin and runny. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and continue to mix until well incorporated.
3. Stir in the warm honey, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves until the mixture is well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the baking soda and all-purpose flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let it firm up.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and, if desired, press a sliced almond into the center of each cookie for decoration.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Store the Honningkaker Honey Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.

These Honningkaker Honey Cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones over a cup of hot cocoa or gifting to friends as a thoughtful homemade present. The combination of honey and fragrant spices creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a cozy winter wonderland with every bite. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the baking magic begin!