If there’s one scent that captures the essence of Christmas, it’s the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread cookies baking in the oven. The delight of making these beloved treats at home and sharing them with family and friends adds an extra touch of magic to the holiday season. Today, we’re bringing you a traditional Swedish recipe for Pepparkakor Gingerbread Cookies that will fill your home with the festive spirit and create memories to cherish for years to come.
Title: Pepparkakor Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the molasses to the butter and sugar mixture and beat until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
6. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use gingerbread cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once completely cooled, you can decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or just enjoy them as they are!
These Pepparkakor Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for adding a touch of Scandinavian charm to your holiday spread. The combination of warm spices and sweet molasses creates a cookie that is both festive and flavorful. Whether you hang them on the tree, serve them at a holiday party, or enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire, these cookies are sure to bring joy to all who taste them. So, gather your loved ones, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and let the baking begin. Happy holidays and happy baking!
