Desserts > Cookies > Norwegian

Cardamom Fattigmann Bakkels Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup currants
- 1/4 cup apricot jam
- 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar

Special Equipment Needed:
- 2 baking sheets
- Pastry brush
- Rolling pin
- 2-inch round cookie cutter

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two baking sheets.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the milk and oil. Gradually stir in the flour mixture until just blended. Stir in the almonds, raisins, and currants.

4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out circles with a 2-inch round cookie cutter. Place on the prepared baking sheets.

5. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden brown.

6. In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam over low heat until melted. Brush the tops of the cookies with the melted jam. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
Serving Size: Makes about 24 cookies

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 2 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Margarine or coconut oil
- Milk: Soy milk or almond milk
- Raisins: Dried cranberries or dried cherries
- Apricot Jam: Any other type of jam or jelly

Variations:
- Substitute other dried fruits for the raisins and currants
- Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough
- Use a different type of nut, such as walnuts or pecans

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar
- Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking
- Use a pastry brush to evenly spread the jam on the cookies

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350 degree F (175 degree C) oven for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve on a platter with a dusting of confectioners' sugar.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped almonds or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot tea or a glass of cold milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cookies are too dry, add a bit more milk or oil to the dough.
- If the cookies are too soft, bake for a few minutes longer.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container.

Food History:
Fattigmann Bakkels are a traditional Norwegian cookie that is typically served during the Christmas season. The recipe dates back to the 19th century.

Flavor Profiles:
Sweet and nutty with hints of cardamom and apricot.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an after-dinner treat or as an accompaniment to coffee or tea.

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Region: Norwegian

Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Nutty, Aromatic