Peppar Kakor(Swedish Ginger Cookie)
Swedish Peppar Kakor are spiced ginger cookies with aromatic cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, offering a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with rich, flavorful notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and molasses; beat well.
- In a separate bowl, blend together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, soda, salt, and cardamom.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture; mix thoroughly.
- Divide dough into 1 1/2-inch rolls and wrap in waxed paper.
- Chill the dough well in the refrigerator.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/8-inch thick slices.
- Place slices on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, consider substituting half of the sugar with brown sugar for added depth. If you prefer a less spicy cookie, reduce the ginger and cloves. Ensure the shortening is at room temperature for easier creaming. If you don’t have molasses, honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will vary. Chill the dough longer if it feels too soft.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies pair beautifully with Irish Coffee (Microwave) for a delightful afternoon treat. Serve them alongside a plate of Herring-Stuffed Beets for a Scandinavian-themed gathering. For a festive touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving or drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.
Storage & Reheating
Store the baked Peppar Kakor in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppar Kakor(Swedish Ginger Cookie) contains roughly 243 calories, with 5g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 make these cookies vegan?
Yes, to make Peppar Kakor vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce. Use a plant-based shortening and ensure that your molasses is vegan-friendly. The cookies may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
How can I make these cookies spicier?
To enhance the spice level in your Peppar Kakor, increase the amount of ginger and cinnamon. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper will give them a warm kick. Experiment with the spices to find your perfect balance of flavor.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and your hands while rolling. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough for an additional 30 minutes to help it firm up before slicing. This will make it easier to manage.
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).