For a touch of Norwegian warmth and tradition in your holiday baking, look no further than the delightful Mørlefse Dark Flatbread. This classic Christmas recipe holds a long-standing place at the heart of Norwegian celebrations, cherished for its rich flavors and comforting aroma. Bringing together the wholesome goodness of dark rye flour and the spicy sweetness of cinnamon and cardamom, Mørlefse Dark Flatbread is a versatile treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa or a dollop of lingonberry jam.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups dark rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dark rye flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt until well combined.
– In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
– Add the molasses to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing until incorporated.
– Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until a soft dough forms.
– If desired, gently fold in the chopped hazelnuts for added crunch and flavor.
2. **Shape and Chill the Dough:**
– Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a ball.
– Flatten each ball into a disc and wrap them in plastic wrap.
– Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
3. **Roll and Bake the Flatbread:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
– Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out small flatbread rounds. Re-roll any scraps of dough to make more rounds.
– Transfer the flatbread rounds to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
– Bake the flatbread in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
– Remove the flatbread from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once the flatbread rounds have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
– Serve the Mørlefse Dark Flatbread alongside your favorite holiday beverages or as a delightful snack on its own.
– Store any leftover flatbread in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will keep for several days.
There you have it, a heartwarming taste of Norway’s Christmas baking tradition with our delicious Mørlefse Dark Flatbread. These festive treats are sure to add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your holiday table and fill your home with the cozy aroma of Christmas spices. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade baking and share the joy with family and friends this holiday season. Happy baking!
