11 Icelandic Christmas Cookies Nordic Traditions

Spiced Ginger Cookies (Vöfflur)

Spiced Ginger Cookies, known as Vöfflur in Iceland, are delightful holiday treats that embody the warmth and cheer of the Christmas season. These cookies are characterized by their soft texture and bold flavors of ginger and spices, making them a perfect accompaniment to a cozy cup of tea or coffee. Vöfflur are often enjoyed during festive gatherings and are a popular holiday favorite among families in Iceland.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your cookies will bake evenly.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Mix until well combined and set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue to beat until all the ingredients are well combined.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps to solidify the dough, making it easier to handle.
7. Shape the Cookies: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
8. Sprinkle with Sugar: Lightly sprinkle granulated sugar on top of each cookie dough ball. This adds a lovely sweetness to the baked cookies.
9. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
10. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Serve and Enjoy: These Spiced Ginger Cookies (Vöfflur) can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed for days. They make a wonderful festive treat for yourself or as gifts for loved ones during the holiday season!

Sale

Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...

• The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
• Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
• 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

$49.99 −$20.00 $29.99

Buy on Amazon

Rose-Shaped Pastries (Rúnar)

Rose-Shaped Pastries, known as Rúnar in Iceland, are exquisite and delicate pastries that are often served during the Christmas season. These fluffy, sweet rolls are shaped like roses and are perfect for festive gatherings, bringing both aesthetic appeal and delightful flavors to the table. With a hint of cardamom and a sugary glaze, they make a wonderful treat to enjoy with family and friends.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Activation of Yeast: In a small bowl, warm ½ cup of whole milk until it is lukewarm (not hot). Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and add a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, remaining granulated sugar, salt, and ground cardamom. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well mixed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add this egg mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients.
4. Create the Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mix. Stir until the dough starts to come together, then knead by hand or with a dough hook in a stand mixer for about 5-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Pastries: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Cut the dough into strips about 2-3 inches wide. Take one strip and cut it into smaller pieces about 3-4 inches long.
7. Form the Roses: Take each smaller piece, roll it up starting from one end to form a rose shape. Pinch the end to seal. Place each rose in a greased muffin tin or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Second Rise: Cover the shaped roses with a clean towel and allow them to rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffed.
9. Preheat the Oven: While the pastries are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Egg Wash: Once the pastries have risen, brush the tops with the egg wash to give them a golden color when baked.
11. Bake: Place the pastries in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
12. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, mix together powdered sugar and milk until smooth to create a glaze.
13. Cool and Glaze: Once baked, let the pastries cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over the top.
14. Serve: Enjoy your beautiful Rose-Shaped Pastries fresh out of the oven or at room temperature, perfect for festive occasions!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...

• Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
• Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
• Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

$24.97

Buy on Amazon

Sweet Saffron Buns (Saffransbullar)

Sweet Saffron Buns, or Saffransbullar, are a cherished Icelandic treat, especially popular during the festive season. These fragrant and soft buns are infused with a warm, aromatic saffron flavor that adds a beautiful golden hue to the dough. Traditionally enjoyed during Christmas, they bring a touch of sweetness and joy to holiday gatherings.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and the saffron strands. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes to release their flavor and color. In another small bowl, warm the milk until lukewarm. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm milk and add a pinch of sugar. Allow this to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cardamom. Mix well using a whisk to guarantee even distribution of the dry ingredients.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, one egg, and the saffron mixture. Once the yeast is activated, add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
4. Create the Dough: Gradually stir in the warm milk and combine until a dough forms. If necessary, add a little more flour or milk to achieve a soft and slightly sticky dough. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Lightly grease a bowl, place the kneaded dough inside, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Buns: After the rise, punch down the dough to release air. Divide the dough into equal pieces (about 12-15), and shape each piece into a ball. For a traditional look, you can also twist the dough or form it into a figure-eight shape.
7. Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart. Cover them lightly with a cloth, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
8. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, brush the tops of the buns with an egg wash (the second egg beaten with a tablespoon of water) for a shiny finish.
9. Bake: Bake the buns in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
10. Glaze (Optional): While the buns are baking, prepare a simple glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Once the buns are cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Enjoy your Sweet Saffron Buns fresh from the oven for a delightful treat during the holiday season!

Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...

• 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
• ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
• ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

$99.00

Buy on Amazon

Nutty Biscotti (Káffikökur)

Nutty Biscotti, or Káffikökur, are delightful twice-baked cookies that originated in Italy but have become a beloved treat in Iceland during the holiday season and beyond. These crunchy, nut-filled biscuits are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, making them a scrumptious accompaniment to warm beverages. Their delightful texture and nutty flavor will certainly make them a popular choice at any festive gathering.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well blended to guarantee an even distribution of ingredients.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the vanilla extract. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. The mixture may be a bit crumbly at this stage.
4. Incorporate Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts and, if desired, the dark chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the mixture light and airy.
5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a log, approximately 12 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. Place the log on the prepared baking sheet, allowing space for it to expand.
6. First Bake: Bake the log in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and firm to the touch. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
7. Slice the Log: Once the log is cool enough to handle, transfer it to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice it diagonally into ½-inch thick pieces.
8. Second Bake: Arrange the biscotti slices back on the baking sheet, cut side up. Return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are dry and crisp, turning them halfway through for even baking.
9. Cool and Store: Once baked, remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Enjoy your Nutty Biscotti with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa!

Sale

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...

• Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
• Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
• Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

$59.99 −$24.00 $35.99

Buy on Amazon

Icelandic Shortbread (Smákökur)

Icelandic Shortbread, known as Smákökur, is a traditional cookie characterized by its buttery richness and crumbly texture. Often enjoyed during the holiday season or on special occasions, these delectable treats are simple to make and can be flavored with various ingredients such as vanilla, cardamom, or even chocolate chips. Their melt-in-your-mouth quality makes them a favorite among both locals and visitors to Iceland.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookies.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla and Salt: Next, add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well incorporated.
4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring it in with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until the dough is just combined and there are no dry flour patches. If using chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into two portions and shape each portion into a log about 1-2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log in plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
6. Slice the Cookies: After chilling, remove the logs from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into round pieces, approximately ½ inch thick. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, which can lead to a harder texture.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, serve the Icelandic Shortbread cookies with your favorite hot beverage or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days. Enjoy their delightful buttery flavor and crumbly texture!

Sale

Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...

• 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
• Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
• Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

$39.99 −$12.00 $27.99

Buy on Amazon

Cardamom Sugar Cookies (Kardemummukökur)

Cardamom Sugar Cookies, or Kardemummukökur, are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, infused with the aromatic spice of cardamom. This flavor gives them a warm, inviting quality that perfectly complements the sweetness of the dough. Commonly enjoyed during the holiday season, these cookies are sure to impress your guests with their unique taste and appealing appearance.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the two ingredients on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, usually around 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack the large egg into the butter-sugar mixture and add the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the egg is fully incorporated into the mixture.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to over-mix; it should just be combined without any visible flour.
6. Shape the Dough: Using your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, you can flatten each ball slightly.
7. Sprinkle Sugar: For added sweetness and a sparkly appearance, sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top of each dough ball.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. The centers should remain slightly soft, as they will firm up as they cool.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once cool, enjoy your delicious Cardamom Sugar Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...

• 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
• 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
• 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

$13.99

Buy on Amazon

Chocolate-Dipped Cookies (Súkkulaðikökur)

Chocolate-Dipped Cookies, or Súkkulaðikökur, are a luxurious treat that perfectly combine the rich flavors of chocolate and buttery cookie goodness. These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as an indulgent snack, offering a satisfying crunch with a decadent chocolate coating. They are often adorned with festive sprinkles or nuts, making them a beautiful addition to any dessert table.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk well to guarantee no lumps remain and set the mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the dough should be smooth and slightly thick.
6. Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are soft. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies will firm up as they cool.
8. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Melt the Chocolate: Once the cookies are cool, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
10. Dip the Cookies: Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off. Place the dipped cookies on a parchment-lined surface.
11. Decorate (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the chocolate-dipped cookies with festive decorations or chopped nuts before the chocolate sets.
12. Set the Chocolate: Let the cookies sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, or you can place them in the refrigerator for faster setting.

Enjoy your homemade Súkkulaðikökur, perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!

Sale

Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...

• Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
• Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
• Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

$19.99 −$6.41 $13.58

Buy on Amazon

Cinnamon Stars (Kanelstjörnur)

Cinnamon Stars, or Kanelstjörnur, are traditional Icelandic cookies that capture the essence of the holiday season with their fragrant blend of cinnamon and almonds. These delightful star-shaped treats are often enjoyed during Christmas celebrations, making them a popular choice for festive gatherings. With their soft and chewy texture and a hint of sweetness, Cinnamon Stars are a delightful addition to your holiday cookie tray!

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well mixed.
3. Beat Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the peaks will gently curl over.
4. Combine Mixtures: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the almond mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Begin with a small amount of egg whites to lighten the mixture, then gradually incorporate the rest. Be gentle to maintain the airiness of the egg whites.
5. Add Vanilla Extract: Once the mixtures are combined, add the vanilla extract and mix gently until just combined.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Turn out the dough onto the surface and roll it out with a rolling pin to about ¼-inch thickness. If the dough sticks, add more powdered sugar as needed.
7. Cut Stars: Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the rolled dough. Place the star cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just set. The cookies should remain soft in the center after baking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust lightly with extra powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch.

Enjoy your Cinnamon Stars as a delightful treat during the holiday season, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

Sale

Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...

• Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
• Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
• Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

$87.99 −$20.01 $67.98

Buy on Amazon

Coconut Macaroons (Kókoskökur)

Coconut Macaroons, known as Kókoskökur in Iceland, are sweet, chewy cookies made from shredded coconut and egg whites. These delightful treats are perfect for the holiday season, providing a tropical twist to traditional Christmas cookies. With their golden edges and soft centers, Coconut Macaroons are sure to be a hit at any festive gathering!

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Beat Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the peaks should stand straight up without falling over.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture using a spatula. Start by adding a small amount of egg whites to lighten the mixture, then gradually incorporate the remaining egg whites. Be gentle to preserve the airiness.
5. Shape the Macaroons: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each mound, as they will spread slightly while baking.
6. Bake the Macaroons: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroons are lightly golden on the edges.
7. Cool the Macaroons: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the macaroons to cool on the sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Optional Chocolate Dip: If desired, melt chocolate in a microwave or a double boiler. Once the macaroons are cool, dip the bottoms into the melted chocolate and place them back on the wire rack to set.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate has hardened (if used), the Coconut Macaroons are ready to enjoy! They can be stored in an airtight container for several days.

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...

• 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
• Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
• Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

$29.99

Buy on Amazon

Almond Bliss Cookies (Mandlarör)

Almond Bliss Cookies, known as Mandlarör in Iceland, are delightful treats that combine the rich flavor of almonds with a soft, buttery texture. Perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion, these cookies are also naturally gluten-free, making them accessible for many dietary preferences. Their delicate almond taste paired with a dusting of powdered sugar creates a lovely finish that is sure to impress your guests.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they become foamy. Gradually add in the vanilla extract and almond extract, continuing to beat until soft peaks form.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry almond mixture into the beaten egg whites. Use a spatula to combine them carefully, ensuring you don’t deflate the egg whites too much. The mixture should be somewhat thick but well combined.
5. Shape the Cookies: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.
6. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The tops may appear slightly cracked, which is normal.
7. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for approximately 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar before serving for a sweet finishing touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy: These Almond Bliss Cookies are best served with a cup of tea or coffee. They can be stored in an airtight container for several days, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.

Butter Cookies With Jam (Smjörkökur Með Sultu)

Butter Cookies with Jam, known as Smjörkökur Með Sultu in Iceland, are a festive treat that blends the rich flavor of buttery dough with a sweet, fruity jam filling. These delectable cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and are sure to be a hit with both children and adults. The combination of the rich buttery taste and the vibrant jam creates a delightful experience with each bite.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to facilitate easy removal of the cookies after baking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter together with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix again until fully incorporated, ensuring a smooth texture.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Shape the Cookies: Take small amounts of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll them into balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for spreading. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a small spoon.
6. Fill with Jam: Spoon a small amount of fruit jam into the indentation of each cookie, being careful not to overfill as the jam may bubble over while baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: After the cookies have cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Butter Cookies with Jam are perfect for serving alongside coffee or tea, or just as a delightful sweet treat on their own. Enjoy!