Easy Berlinerkranser Cookies Recipe
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Introducing the delightful world of Norwegian Berlinerkranser cookies, a beloved Scandinavian treat brimming with timeless charm and delectable flavors. These dainty, buttery cookies encapsulate the heart of Norwegian holiday traditions, and their distinctive shape and vibrant decorations make them a cherished addition to festive gatherings. Crafted from a simple yet irresistible blend of butter, sugar, orange rind, eggs, salt, and flour, these cookies are a perfect embodiment of the season’s warmth and cheer. Topped with a sugary glaze made from egg whites and adorned with vibrant green sugar and cinnamon candies, Berlinerkranser cookies not only embody the spirit of the holidays but also offer a delightful combination of sweet, citrusy, and spiced flavors.
You’ll find that the dough’s texture is beautifully delicate and the cookies are intricately shaped to resemble delicate wreaths, making them not just a taste sensation but also a feast for the eyes. The touch of fresh orange rind infuses a hint of citrusy brightness, perfectly complementing the rich, buttery sweetness. With a final flourish of sugary glaze and the festive sparkle of green sugar and cinnamon candies, these cookies are a true embodiment of the holiday spirit, a sweet reminder of cherished traditions, and a source of heartwarming joy.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Butter
- Sugar
- Orange Rind
- Egg
- Flour
- Salt
- Egg White
- Green Sugar
- Cinnamon Candies
Equipment You May Need
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Mixing Bowl
- Mixer
- Rolling Pin
- Pastry Mat
- Cookie Sheets
- Cookie Spatula
- Cooling Racks
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the significance of Berlinerkranser in Norwegian traditions? Berlinerkranser are a classic Norwegian holiday cookie often enjoyed during Christmas. They hold a special place in Norwegian traditions, symbolizing the joy and festivity of the season.
How do I get the dough to the right consistency for shaping the cookies? Achieving the right dough consistency is essential. If the dough is too crumbly, you can add a little extra butter to make it more pliable. If it’s too sticky, gradually incorporate more flour.
What’s the best method for shaping the Berlinerkranser cookies? You can use a donut-shaped cookie cutter or you can shape the dough into small ropes, about the thickness of your little finger, and form them into wreaths or S-shapes. You may need a little practice, but the results are worth it.
How should I store Berlinerkranser cookies to keep them fresh? Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain fresh for several days, but you can extend their shelf life by placing them in a cool, dry place or the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Berlinerkranser cookies for later use? Yes, you can freeze these cookies for an extended shelf life. Place them in an airtight container or freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Substitutions and Variations
Citrus Zest: Instead of orange rind, you can use lemon, lime, or grapefruit zest for a different citrusy flavor.
Icing Variations: Instead of the traditional sugar and egg white topping, you can use royal icing, chocolate ganache, or a flavored glaze made with different extracts.
Decorations: While green sugar and cinnamon candies are traditional decorations, you can get creative with colored sprinkles, edible flowers, or other colorful candies.
Dip in Chocolate: After icing, dip the cookies in melted chocolate and allow them to set for a delicious chocolate-coated Berlinerkranser.
Cardamom Spice: Incorporate ground cardamom into the dough for a Scandinavian twist and a warm, spicy aroma.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
If you like Berlinerkranser cookies, you might also like my Lemon Puff Cookies or my Soft Sugar Cookies. These Sandbakkelse, another Norwegian Christmas cookie, are also delicious. For a fun kid-friendly Christmas treat, try these Santa Cupcakes.
Final Thoughts
These cookies are crunchy with a light, refreshing flavor and they remind me of the butter cookies that came in the blue tin when I was a child. My whole family enjoyed them and asked if these cookies would be added to my holiday baking lineup. I love how festive and colorful they are, too.
Berlinerkranser
Ingredients
- ¾ Cup Butter
- ½ Cup Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Orange Rind grated
- 1 Egg
- 2 Cups Flour sifted
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
Topping
- 1 Egg White
- 2 Tablespoons Sugar
- Green Sugar
- Cinnamon Candies
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter.
- Add the ½ cup of sugar, grated orange rind, and egg. Beat until light.
- Gradually add the flour and salt.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to roll out.
- Flour a pastry mat or other flat surface and roll the dough out to ⅛ inch.
- Cut the dough into strips and roll into logs and shape into wreaths.
- Place on the cookie sheet.
- Beat the egg whites until foamy.
- Gradually add 2 Tablespoons of sugar and beat until stiff.
- Brush the cookies with the egg white mixture.
- Decorate the cookies to resemble wreaths with the green sugar and cinnamon candies.
- Bake at 400℉ for 10-12 minutes.
- Place cookies on wire racks to cool while still hot.
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