Desserts > Norwegian > Bakkels

Orange Fattigmann Bakkels Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

Special Equipment Needed:
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- 2-inch round cookie cutter

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add orange juice and orange zest.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Stir in almonds and raisins.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Cut out 2-inch rounds with a cookie cutter and place on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Let cool on a wire rack.
11. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

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

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Can be substituted with margarine or coconut oil.
- Orange Juice: Can be substituted with lemon juice.
- Almonds: Can be substituted with other nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
- Raisins: Can be substituted with other dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon for a spiced flavor.
- Substitute orange juice and zest with lemon juice and zest for a lemon flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped candied orange peel for a citrusy flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Use a cookie cutter to get uniform shapes.

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

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°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 sprig of mint.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

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

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the bakkels are too dry, add a little more orange juice.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Keep the bakkels in an airtight container to prevent spoilage.

Food History:
Fattigmann Bakkels are a traditional Norwegian cookie that is usually served during the Christmas season. The name Fattigmann translates to “poor man” in Norwegian, as the cookie was originally made with inexpensive ingredients.

Flavor Profiles:
These cookies have a sweet and citrusy flavor with a hint of nuttiness from the almonds.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an after-dinner treat or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Region: Norwegian

Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Citrusy, Buttery