Hasselnøttkaker Hazelnut Cookies

Introduction:
During the festive Christmas season, nothing warms the heart and home quite like the delightful aroma of freshly baked Norwegian Christmas cookies. In Norway, Christmas baking is a cherished tradition that brings families together to create delicious treats that are enjoyed throughout the holiday season. One such beloved recipe is the Hasselnøttkaker, also known as Hazelnut Cookies. These delicate cookies are a perfect balance of nutty flavors and sweet indulgence, making them a must-have on any holiday cookie platter.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup finely ground hazelnuts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely ground hazelnuts, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined and smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms, making sure not to overmix.
6. Shape the dough into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
7. Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
8. Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading while baking.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and festive flair.
12. Serve these delightful Hasselnøttkaker Hazelnut Cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite holiday beverage, and enjoy the cozy flavors of Christmas with your loved ones!

These Hasselnøttkaker Hazelnut Cookies embody the essence of a Norwegian Christmas, bringing warmth, joy, and a touch of nutty sweetness to your holiday celebrations. Whether you savor them as a delightful treat for yourself or gift them to friends and family, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. So, gather your loved ones, preheat the oven, and let the aroma of these delectable cookies fill your kitchen with holiday cheer! Happy baking!