When it comes to holiday baking, there’s a certain magic in creating treats that not only taste delicious but also look stunning on any festive table. In Sweden, one beloved tradition is making Snöstjärnor Snowflake Cookies, delicate and buttery cookies that resemble beautiful snowflakes. These treats are not only a joy to make but also make the perfect edible gift for friends and family. Let’s dive into the recipe for these delightful Swedish Christmas cookies.
Title: Snöstjärnor Snowflake Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ tsp ground cardamom
– ½ cup pearl sugar (for decoration)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and beat until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and ground cardamom.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shaping each into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about ¼ inch (0.6 cm).
8. Use snowflake-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the cookies and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
9. Sprinkle each cookie generously with pearl sugar, gently pressing it into the dough.
10. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Snöstjärnor Snowflake Cookies are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The hint of cardamom in the buttery dough adds a unique flavor that complements the sweetness of the pearl sugar perfectly. These cookies are wonderful to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireside or to share with loved ones during the holiday season.
Remember to store the baked cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days. You can also personalize these treats by drizzling them with melted white chocolate or dusting them with edible glitter for a touch of extra sparkle.
In this holiday season, take some time to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of baking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these Snöstjärnor Snowflake Cookies are a delightful addition to any Christmas baking repertoire. Share the warmth and joy of homemade treats with those you love, and let the magic of the season shine through in every snowflake-shaped bite.
