Christmas in Denmark is a time filled with cozy gatherings, twinkling lights, and delightful traditional treats. One such treat that captures the essence of Danish holiday baking is the Honningstænger, also known as Honey Sticks. These sweet and spiced cookies are a beloved Christmas classic in Danish households, bringing warmth and cheer to family and friends.
Title: Honningstænger Honey Sticks
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the honey, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove one dough disk from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes, such as sticks or traditional Danish Christmas designs.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a bit of space between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the remaining dough.
8. Once all the cookies are baked and cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy finish. Serve these Honningstænger Honey Sticks with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy Christmas treat that will delight your loved ones.
Enjoy these Honey Sticks as a festive addition to your holiday cookie platter or package them up in pretty tins to give as homemade gifts. Embrace the spirit of Danish Christmas baking with these aromatic, spiced cookies that will fill your home with warmth and joy. Happy baking!
