Swedish Cakes
Swedish Cakes are delicate, nut-filled cookies with a buttery texture and jam center, perfect for festive occasions or a delightful treat with afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat egg yolk slightly and add to the mixture.
- Blend in flour until well combined.
- Form the dough into 1-inch balls.
- Finely chop the nuts.
- Dip each ball into beaten egg white, then roll in chopped nuts.
- Place on a greased cookie sheet and press fairly flat with a glass.
- Bake in a slow oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven and press the center of each cookie down.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Cool the cookies and fill with jam before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, make sure your shortening is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. For a healthier option, consider using a butter substitute or applesauce as an Egg Substitute. If you prefer, you can also mix in a bit of vanilla extract for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These cakes are delightful served as a dessert alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a more festive treat, pair them with a dollop of Berry Dip for a refreshing contrast. They can also be served at gatherings or as a sweet addition to a brunch spread, complementing dishes like Sweet Irish Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Swedish Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Cakes contains roughly 195 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using any nuts, walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios can add unique flavors and textures. Just ensure they are finely chopped to adhere well to the dough.
What can I use if I don't have shortening?
You can replace shortening with an equal amount of butter or margarine for a richer flavor. If you need a dairy-free alternative, coconut oil works well too, just ensure it is softened at room temperature.
How do I know when the cakes are done baking?
The cakes should be lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch. If they feel soft in the center, give them a few more minutes in the oven. Remember to check them closely towards the end of the baking time.
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).