Päronsnittar Pear Slices Cookies

During the festive season, Swedish households come alive with the smell of warm, comforting spices and sweet treats baking in the oven. Traditional Swedish Christmas baking holds a special place in the hearts of many, providing warmth and coziness during the cold winter months. One such delightful recipe is Päronsnittar, known for its delicious combination of tender cookies and sweet pear preserves. These Pear Slices Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, offering a taste of Scandinavian charm and sweetness to your table.

**Päronsnittar Pear Slices Cookies**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pear preserves
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated 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 ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

4. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 12 inches long. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Once the dough has chilled, remove one log at a time from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds.

7. Place the dough rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Using your thumb, make an indentation in the center of each cookie.

8. Fill each indentation with a small dollop of pear preserves.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.

10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Once the cookies are completely cool, dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Enjoy these Päronsnittar Pear Slices Cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine, and savor the delightful flavors of a Swedish Christmas tradition.