Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, finely chopped
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Fattigmann cutter or cookie cutter
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Candy thermometer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the almond extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until a smooth dough forms.
6. Stir in the chopped almonds.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Cut the dough into shapes using a fattigmann cutter or cookie cutter.
9. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
10. Fry the fattigmann in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
11. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Frying temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
Makes about 24-30 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 7g
Saturated fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 10mg
Total carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond extract can be substituted with vanilla extract or any other flavor extract of your choice.
- Slivered almonds can be substituted with chopped pecans or walnuts.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
- Dip the cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is rolled out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Use a fattigmann cutter or cookie cutter with a decorative edge to make the cookies look more festive.
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar while they are still warm for better adherence.
Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
The cookies can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle some chopped almonds or orange zest on top of the cookies for added texture and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve the cookies with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are perfect on their own as a sweet treat.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until a smooth dough forms.
- If the cookies are too greasy, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying.
Food safety advice:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature to prevent burning or undercooking.
- Be careful when frying the cookies as hot oil can cause burns.
Food history:
Fattigmann is a traditional Norwegian Christmas cookie that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter and fried until crispy. The name "fattigmann" translates to "poor man" in English, as the cookies were originally made with simple ingredients that were readily available.
Flavor profiles:
These cookies have a buttery and nutty flavor with a hint of almond extract.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these cookies as a sweet treat during the holiday season or as a snack with coffee or tea.
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Region: Norwegian