Hanna'S Swedish Pepper Cookies(Pepparkakor)
Hanna's Swedish Pepper Cookies, or Pepparkakor, are spicy, crispy ginger cookies with a hint of molasses, perfect for holiday treats or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and butter until well combined.
- Sift together the flour, ginger, and cloves.
- Mix molasses and baking soda until combined.
- Combine all ingredients to form a dough.
- Roll the dough into a log approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter.
- Refrigerate the log for 3 hours or overnight.
- Slice the chilled dough paper-thin.
- Place a piece of almond in the center of each slice.
- Bake in a moderate oven (350° to 375°F) for 10 minutes.
- Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or adjusting the amount of ginger to your taste. If you don't have molasses, dark corn syrup can be a suitable substitute. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, and chilling the dough is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Swedish Pepper Cookies make an excellent accompaniment to tea or coffee, accentuating their spicy flavors. They can also serve as a delightful treat during holiday gatherings. For added flair, consider pairing them with a side of Chunky Veggie Dip for a contrasting crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hanna'S Swedish Pepper Cookies(Pepparkakor) contains roughly 1945 calories, with 6g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 184g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1478mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. Just remember that different sweeteners may slightly alter the texture and taste of the cookies.
How can I make these cookies less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of ginger and cloves. You can also omit one of the spices altogether or replace them with a touch of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
What is the best way to slice the chilled dough?
Use a sharp knife to slice the dough paper-thin, ideally about 1/8 inch thick. A gentle sawing motion helps avoid squishing the dough, ensuring that each cookie maintains its shape and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).