Christmas in Denmark is a time of joy, warmth, and lots of delicious baked treats. One of the most beloved holiday recipes is the traditional Nøddesmåkager, also known as Nut Cookies. These delightful cookies are packed with the rich flavors of nuts and the perfect hint of sweetness. They are not only a delight to the taste buds but also a wonderful addition to your festive table or a lovely treat to share with family and friends.
**Nøddesmåkager Nut Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup finely chopped mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Nuts:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread the mixed nuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant. Allow them to cool before finely chopping them.
2. **Mix the Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until well combined.
3. **Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:** Sift together the flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until you form a cohesive dough. Fold in the finely chopped toasted nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. **Shape the Cookies:** Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the cookie balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use a fork to gently flatten the cookies, creating a crosshatch pattern on the top.
5. **Bake the Cookies:** Bake the Nøddesmåkager Nut Cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.
6. **Cool and Enjoy:** Once baked, remove the cookies 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. These cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk.
Nøddesmåkager Nut Cookies are a true Danish Christmas classic that brings a delightful combination of nuttiness and sweetness to your holiday celebrations. Whether you enjoy them as a cozy treat by the fireplace or share them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring a touch of Scandinavian warmth to your home this holiday season. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked Nut Cookies fill your kitchen with the spirit of Christmas!
