Traditional Norwegian Pepperkaker Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

  • 350g all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 150g sugar
  • 150g dark syrup or molasses
  • 125g unsalted butter
  • 100ml heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and spices. Set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, mix the sugar, dark syrup, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Then add the heavy cream and orange zest, stirring well to combine.
  4. Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing well until a dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
  6. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
  8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly browned.
  9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowl - A large bowl to combine the dry ingredients and wet ingredients.
  • Saucepan - A pan to heat and mix the sugar, dark syrup, and butter.
  • Plastic wrap - Used to wrap the dough before chilling it in the refrigerator.
  • Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Cookie cutters - Used to cut out shapes from the rolled-out dough.
  • Baking sheets - Flat sheets used to place the cookies for baking.
  • Parchment paper - Placed on the baking sheets to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  • Wire racks - Used to cool the baked cookies and allow air circulation.

Recipe variations

  • Gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Vegan version: Replace the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and use a plant-based milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Spiced variation: Add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom to the spice mixture for an extra kick of flavor.
  • Citrus twist: Replace the orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a different citrus flavor.
  • Chocolate-dipped: Once the cookies have cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
  • Almond-flavored: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the wet ingredients for a delicious almond twist.
  • Fruity option: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a burst of sweetness.
  • Decorative icing: Once the cookies have cooled, decorate them with royal icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar for a festive touch.

Recipe overview

Pepperkaker, also known as Norwegian Gingerbread Cookies, are a staple of the holiday season in Norway. These spiced cookies are rich in flavor, beautifully fragrant, and have a delightful crunch that makes them absolutely irresistible. Making your own pepperkaker is a fantastic way to bring a touch of Norwegian Christmas tradition to your home. This recipe uses a blend of classic spices including ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, along with a hint of orange zest for an extra zing. The dough is easy to work with and can be rolled out to your desired thickness for either crisp or softer cookies. Your kitchen will be filled with a warm, festive aroma as these bake in the oven. So, put on your favorite holiday tunes, get your cookie cutters ready, and let's start making some delicious pepperkaker! Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for the perfect holiday treat. Happy baking!

Common questions

  1. Can I substitute the dark syrup or molasses?
    Yes, you can substitute dark syrup or molasses with an equal amount of honey or light corn syrup.
  2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
    While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use margarine as a substitute if desired.
  3. Can I store the dough in the refrigerator for longer than overnight?
    Yes, you can store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before rolling and baking.
  4. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
    Yes, the baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
  5. Can I decorate the cookies with icing?
    Absolutely! Once the cookies have cooled completely, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or any other desired decorations.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Cookie cutters - Used to cut the dough into various shapes for the cookies.
  • Baking sheets - Used to hold and bake the cookies in the oven.
  • Parchment paper - Placed on the baking sheets to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  • Wire racks - Used to cool the baked cookies and allow air circulation.
  • Plastic wrap - Used to wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator.
  • Saucepan - Used to heat and combine the sugar, dark syrup, and butter.
  • Mixing bowl - Used to combine the dry ingredients and wet ingredients.
  • Spatula - Used to scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix the dough.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - Used to accurately measure the ingredients.

Origin stories

Pepperkaker, or Norwegian gingerbread cookies, hold a special place in the heart of the Norwegian holiday season. Among the oldest of Norway's Christmas traditions, Pepperkaker baking is often a family affair, with everyone involved in the creation and decoration of these delightful treats. The cookie's name, which literally translates to "pepper cakes," is somewhat misleading as there is usually no pepper in the recipe; it's believed the term used to refer to all spices, including the cinnamon, ginger, and cloves that give these cookies their distinctive flavor. The baking of Pepperkaker isn't just about creating a tasty treat, it's also steeped in folklore. It's said that these cookies bring good luck and protection, with some Norwegians even hanging them in their windows to ward off evil spirits during the dark winter months.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.