Pepper Kakor-Swedish Ginger Cookies
Swedish Pepper Kakor are spicy ginger cookies with warm spices and molasses, perfect for festive occasions or as a flavorful treat for those who enjoy bold, aromatic cookies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, butter, egg, molasses, dark Karo syrup, ginger, baking soda, cloves, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add flour to the mixture until the dough becomes very stiff.
- Roll the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut into 2 1/2 to 3-inch circle shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6 minutes until lightly browned.
- Allow cookies to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using fresh ground ginger instead of dried. If you're out of molasses, dark brown sugar can serve as a substitute. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out; this helps in achieving the perfect texture. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the spice profile, making these cookies even more delightful.
Serving Suggestions
These Pepper Kakor are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat with tea or coffee. Serve them alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or hot chocolate for a delightful pairing. They also make a charming gift when packaged in decorative tins. For a sweet twist, try them with a drizzle of Icing Supreme on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Kakor-Swedish Ginger Cookies contains roughly 862 calories, with 6g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (67% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2094mg per serving (91% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. However, this may change the texture slightly, making the cookies denser. It’s best to gradually incorporate whole wheat flour to find the right balance.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep a close eye on them after the 5-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like allspice or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist. Just remember to adjust the amounts to keep the balance of spices harmonious with the ginger, cloves, and cinnamon.
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).