Norwegian Lemon Bonbons
Delightful Norwegian Lemon Bonbons combine buttery cookies with chopped pecans and a tangy lemon frosting, perfect for festive occasions or sweet indulgences with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy.
- Add sifted cornstarch and flour, mixing well to form a dough.
- Chill the dough until it can be handled easily, about 30 minutes.
- Shape the dough into small walnut-sized balls.
- Spread chopped pecans on waxed paper and sprinkle with a little sugar.
- Place each dough ball on the nuts and flatten with the bottom of a small glass.
- Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet, nut side up.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool.
- Prepare the frosting by creaming 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon butter, and the juice of half a lemon until smooth.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the lemon frosting before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using unsalted margarine instead of butter. You can also substitute half of the pecans with finely chopped walnuts for a different flavor profile. Make sure to sift your cornstarch and flour for a smoother dough. If you prefer a zestier frosting, add a bit of lemon zest to the frosting mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Norwegian Lemon Bonbons are delightful served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with a Yogurt Sundae for a refreshing dessert spread. For a festive touch, garnish the cookies with additional lemon zest or serve them on a decorative plate to impress guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Lemon Bonbons contains roughly 172 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Both options will provide a different texture and flavor, while still complementing the lemon frosting nicely.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky and hard to handle, try chilling it for a longer period of time. Alternatively, you can lightly flour your hands when shaping the balls to prevent sticking. Adding a tablespoon of flour gradually can also help achieve the right consistency.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture. The rest of the ingredients remain the same for a delicious gluten-free treat.
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).