Pepperkake, the Norwegian version of
gingerbread cookies, are arguably the
most popular cookies in Norway holding
a cherished place in the country's holiday
traditions. Originating in Norway in
the 16th-century, these spiced treats
were initially introduced by German
merchants. Pepperkake features a
delightful blend of ginger, cinnamon,
cloves and/or cardamon, providing a
warm and aromatic flavour.
The dough is shaped into various forms,
from traditional hearts to intricate
figures, making Pepperkake not just
a delicious yuletide snack but also an
edible expression of Norwegian
festive creativity that can also make
pretty Christmas decorations when
tied with ribbon. These festive cookies
are often enjoyed during Christmas
celebrations, reflecting Norway's rich
culinary heritage.
A Norwegian take on
GINGERBREAD
COOKIES
INGREDIENTS
For the cookies:
2 oz (55g) butter
2¾ oz (75g) soft
Light brown sugar
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 tsp. ground ginger
½ tsp. ground cardamom
1 tsp. finely grated orange zest
0.7 fl oz (20ml) of clear honey
2-4 tbsp. milk
8oz (225g) plain flour
½ tsp. bicarbonate of soda
For the icing:
1 egg white
About 10½ oz (300g)
sifted confectioners' (icing) sugar
Squeeze of lemon
METHOD
1. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the spices, orange zest and honey and beat again,
then add 2 tbsp of milk. Gradually add the flour and
bicarbonate of soda and bring the dough together in a
ball, adding more milk if necessary so it's not sticky. Wrap
in plastic wrap and place in the fridge for an hour.
2. Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough ⅛ in
(3 mm) thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out hearts - if you
want to hang them up, make a hole in the top. Gather the
remaining dough into a ball, roll it out again and keep
cutting until it has all been used. Place in the fridge for
45 minutes and heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the
biscuits for 12 minutes and allow to cool until hard.
3. Make the icing and decorate. For a Scandi feel try
writing 'God Jul' – 'Merry Christmas' in Norwegian.
Making a gingerbread house
viking.com
31
