Norwegian Honey Shortbread (Eggles)
Welcome to our blog post all about Norwegian Honey Shortbread, or as the Norweg like to call them, Eggles! If you a lover of sweet treats and have a penchant for trying delicacies, you're in for a real treat. In this post, we'll explore the history of Eggles, share a mouthwatering recipe, and delve into the delightful flavors that make them so unique. So grab a cup of tea and let's dive in!
The Origins of Eggles
Eggles have a rich history that dates back centuries in Norway. These crisp and buttery shortbread cookies have long been enjoyed during festive occasions and celebrations. Baked with a generous amount of honey, these treats have a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements their tender texture.
The recipe for Eggles has been passed down through generations, with families adding their own personal touches and adopting different variations. While the exact origins of Eggles remain somewhat mysterious, it's believed that the combination of honey and shortbread was influenced by Scandinavian and British baking traditions.
The Recipe
Now, let's get to the good part - the recipe for Norwegian Honey Shortbread, or Eggles! Here's what you'll need:
250g unsalted butter, softened
120g granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons honey
350g all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes around 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add the vanilla extract and honey to the butter mixture and continue to mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Take one log of dough out of the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake the Eggles for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as they can quickly go from golden to burnt!
Once baked, remove the Eggles from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Repeat steps 6-8 with the second log of dough.
And there you have it, a batch of delicious Norwegian Honey Shortbread, or Eggles! These cookies can be enjoyed on their own, but they are also often served with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
The Delightful Flavors of Eggles
One of the things that make Eggles truly special is their unique flavor profile. The combination of butter, honey, and the slight tang from the vanilla extract creates a symphony of tastes in every bite. The crispness of the shortbread provides a satisfying crunch, while the tender center melts in your mouth.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try adding different flavors to your Eggles. Consider incorporating a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of cardamom for a warm and aromatic twist. You can even dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Perfect Eggles
While the recipe for Eggles is relatively straightforward, there are a few tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:
Butter Quality: Be sure to use unsalted butter of the highest quality for the best flavor and texture.
Chilling the Dough: It's essential to refrigerate the dough logs before slicing and baking. This helps firm up the dough and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
Slice Thickness: Aim for a 1/4-inch thickness when slicing the dough logs. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and have a consistent texture.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the Eggles while they're in the oven. They can go from golden brown to burnt quickly, so it's best to start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
In Conclusion
Norwegian Honey Shortbread, or Eggles, are a delightful sweet treat with a rich history and a flavor that will transport you straight to the heart of Norway. Whether you enjoy them on their own or pair them with a hot beverage, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So why not give our recipe a try and embark on a delicious journey through Norwegian culinary traditions? Happy baking!
Note: The term "Eggles" is not widely used in English, but we've included it here to reflect the traditional Norwegian name for these cookies
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