Peppernøtter Pepper Nuts Cookies

Step into the cozy and festive world of Norwegian Christmas baking with the delightful Peppernøtter recipe. These Pepper Nuts Cookies, known for their wonderful blend of warm spices and rich flavors, are a beloved holiday treat in Norway that will surely bring a touch of Scandinavian charm to your home this holiday season. Perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or gifting to loved ones, these tiny, crispy cookies pack a big punch of flavor in every bite.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

**Instructions:**

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and cardamom until well combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. It’s okay if the dough is slightly sticky.

5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up, making it easier to handle.

6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

7. Using your hands, roll small portions of the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.

9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once cooled, store the Pepper Nuts Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. These cookies also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the holiday season.

Embrace the spirit of Scandinavian holiday traditions by baking a batch of these aromatic and charming Pepper Nuts Cookies. Their warm spices and crispy texture make them a perfect pairing for a cozy winter evening by the fire or as a delightful addition to your holiday cookie platter. Enjoy the simple pleasures of Norwegian baking with every bite of these festive treats!