When it comes to baking, Sweden is known for its rich tradition and delicious treats. One of the most beloved Swedish baked goods are cookies, or “kakor” as they’re called in Swedish. With a wide variety of flavors and textures to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this Scandinavian country. Whether you’re looking for classic recipes passed down through generations or innovative twists on traditional favorites, Swedish cookie recipes have got you covered.
From sweet treats like pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies) and chokladbollar (chocolate balls) to more savory options like mandelkakor (almond cookies) and havrekakor (oatmeal cookies), the options are endless. And with holidays like Lucia and Midsummer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get baking.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious Swedish cookie recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic flavors like cardamom and saffron to more modern twists on traditional favorites, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family. So grab a cup of coffee, put on your favorite apron, and let’s get baking!
Swedish Pepparkakor (Gingerbread Cookies)
Pepparkakor, a classic Swedish treat, is a staple during the holiday season. These soft and spicy gingerbread cookies are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Water, as needed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If too sticky, add water as needed.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Swedish Butter Cookies (Smördegskakor)
These tender, crumbly cookies are a staple of Swedish baking, perfect for dunking in coffee or tea. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Chocolate Balls (Chokladbollar)
A classic Swedish treat that’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the oat mixture until a dough forms.
6. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Place the chocolate balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! These chocolate balls are best served chilled.
Swedish Almond Cookies (Mandelkakor)
These classic Swedish cookies are a staple of Scandinavian baking, with a delicate texture and subtle almond flavor. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup finely ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and ground almonds.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Vanilla Dreams (Vaniljhjärtan)
Experience the comforting warmth of Sweden’s classic vanilla pastry, Vaniljhjärtan! This tender and buttery treat is infused with the sweetness of real vanilla and topped with a crunchy streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (hearts or squares work well).
4. Place pastry on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each piece.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Streusel Topping:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Mix ingredients together until crumbly. Sprinkle on top of pastry before baking.
Swedish Cardamom Cookies (Kardemummakakor)
These traditional Swedish cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with the distinct flavor of cardamom. Perfect for any occasion, these crunchy treats will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and cardamom.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Hazelnut Cookies (Nötkakor)
A classic Swedish treat, these hazelnut cookies are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hazelnuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, grind hazelnuts until coarsely chopped.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Coconut Macaroons (Kokostoppar)
These chewy coconut macaroons are a classic Swedish treat, perfect for snacking or as a dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these delicious cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of ground cardamom (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Oatmeal Cookies (Havrekakor)
These classic Swedish cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of sugar and spices. With their crunchy edges and chewy centers, Havrekakor are a perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped almonds or raisins for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cardamom.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together. Beat in egg until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Cinnamon Stars (Kanelstjärnor)
These traditional Swedish treats are a perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar, and buttery goodness. Perfect for snacking or as a gift, Kanelstjärnor are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add granulated sugar, cinnamon, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each star.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Swedish Cinnamon Stars!
Swedish Jam Thumbprint Cookies (Hallongrottor)
These classic Swedish cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a delightful surprise in the center – a dollop of jam! Perfect for a holiday treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon jam (such as lingonberry or raspberry)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Use a thumb or a cookie cutter to create an indentation in the center of each dough circle.
5. Place a small spoonful of jam into each indentation.
6. Fold the dough over the jam, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Swedish Meringue Cookies (Maränger)
These delicate meringue cookies are a classic Swedish treat, perfect for special occasions or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating continuously until stiff peaks form.
4. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Spoon small mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the cookies are dry and crisp.
7. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 to 2 hours
Swedish Spritz Cookies (Spritskakor)
Experience the classic Swedish tradition of baking sweet and delicate cookies with this simple recipe for Spritskakor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sprinkles or nonpareils for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
8. Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating with sprinkles or nonpareils.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Saffron Cookies (Lussekatter)
These sweet and spicy cookies are a beloved Christmas tradition in Sweden, typically baked on St. Lucia’s Day (December 13th). With their distinctive saffron flavor and cardamom aroma, Lussekatter are a delightful treat to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and saffron mixture.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Chocolate Dipped Cookies (Chokladdoppade Kakor)
These chewy cookies are a classic Swedish treat that combines the richness of dark chocolate with the warmth of vanilla and sweetness of sugar. Perfect for a sweet indulgence, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Swedish Lemon Cookies (Citronkakor)
Citronkakor are a classic Swedish treat that combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of sugar and spices. These chewy cookies are perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and lemon juice.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in confectioners’ sugar and lemon zest.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Swedish Walnut Cookies (Valnötskakor)
These traditional Swedish cookies are a perfect combination of crunchy walnuts and soft, chewy dough.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swedish Shortbread Cookies (Småkakor)
These buttery cookies are a classic Swedish treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or serving at parties. With their crumbly texture and subtle sweetness, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until it forms a crumbly mixture.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet world of Swedish cookies! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies) and smördegskakor (butter cookies) to decadent chokladbollar (chocolate balls) and exotic lussekatter (saffron cookies), there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy on its own or as a gift, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get baking, and experience the taste of Sweden in your own kitchen!