Julespecier Christmas Butter Cookies

When it comes to Christmas baking traditions, Denmark holds a special place for its delightful array of sweet treats that bring warmth and coziness to the holiday season. One of the most beloved Danish Christmas recipes is Julespecier Christmas Butter Cookies. These buttery delights are perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or as a thoughtful homemade gift for family and friends during the festive season. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create these delicious Danish treats at home!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional, for topping)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

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, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined. The dough should come together and be slightly sticky.

4. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm.

5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.

7. For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped almonds on top of the cookies, gently pressing them into the dough.

8. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be sure to watch them closely as they can easily overbake.

9. 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.

10. Once cooled, dust the Julespecier Christmas Butter Cookies with powdered sugar for a final festive touch.

These delightful Danish butter cookies are a wonderful addition to any Christmas gathering, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your loved ones. The rich buttery flavor, combined with a hint of almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, makes these Julespecier cookies a true taste of Danish Christmas tradition.

Embrace the spirit of the season by baking a batch of these delightful cookies and savoring the joy they bring. Share them with friends, family, or simply enjoy them by the fire with a warm drink. Happy baking and merry Christmas!