Smørkjeks Butter Cookies

Embark on a delightful culinary journey this holiday season with a traditional Norwegian Christmas baking recipe – the Smørkjeks Butter Cookies. These buttery delights are a staple in Norwegian households during the festive season, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor. Perfect for indulging in a cozy evening by the fireplace or gifting to loved ones, these cookies are sure to add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your celebrations.

Title: Smørkjeks Butter Cookies

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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

3. Add the salt and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and mix well to combine.

4. Gradually incorporate the flour into the dough, mixing until a smooth and cohesive dough forms.

5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters of your choice to cut out shapes from the dough.

6. Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just beginning to turn golden brown.

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

9. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a festive touch, if desired.

10. Serve these delightful Smørkjeks Butter Cookies with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, and enjoy the cozy flavors of a Norwegian Christmas tradition.

These butter cookies are not only a joy to bake but also make a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family. Feel free to customize them by adding a sprinkle of colored sugar or drizzling them with melted chocolate for a more decadent treat. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or simply wanting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere at home, baking these Norwegian-inspired cookies will surely bring a touch of Scandinavian warmth to your holiday season. Dive into the world of traditional Nordic baking and savor the festive flavors of these delightful Smørkjeks Butter Cookies.