Name: Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: PT-489066H34M32S
Cuisine: Scandinavian
Ingredients: For the Cookies:; 2 ¼ cups (270 g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; ½ cup (60 g) finely ground almonds or almond flour; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon almond extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; For the Topping:; ; ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted (for dusting); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, mixed with powdered sugar)

The holidays have a magical way of connecting us to family, traditions, and flavors that transport us across generations. Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies are one such tradition—delicate, buttery, and dusted with snowy sugar, they encapsulate the cozy charm of Scandinavian baking. These cookies, often shaped into crescents or rounds, are known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle almond undertones. They are the kind of cookie you set out on a platter, only to find the plate mysteriously empty by the evening.

What makes Ruthie’s version so special is its simplicity and authenticity. The recipe uses wholesome ingredients, straightforward steps, and results in cookies that are rustic yet elegant. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive gathering or as a thoughtful gift, these Scandinavian Christmas cookies are guaranteed to spread warmth and joy.

Ingredients

To achieve the authentic taste and texture of Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies, measure carefully and use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This recipe makes about 36 cookies.

For the Cookies:

2 ¼ cups (270 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
½ cup (60 g) finely ground almonds or almond flour
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted (for dusting)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, mixed into powdered sugar for spiced dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step usually takes 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract, then beat again until the mixture is smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be pliable but not sticky. If it feels too crumbly, knead gently with your hands until it holds together.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps develop the flavors.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into small portions, about 1 tablespoon each. Roll the dough between your palms to form small logs, then curve them into crescent shapes. Alternatively, roll into simple balls for round cookies. Place them on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the cookies for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale to ensure the cookies stay tender. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to rest for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 5: Dust with Sugar

While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in sifted powdered sugar or sprinkle the sugar generously over the top. If you enjoy a touch of spice, mix the powdered sugar with cinnamon before dusting. Allow the cookies to cool completely—the sugar coating will create a delicate, snowy finish.

Conservation and Storage

Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies keep well if stored correctly. Once fully cooled, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. At room temperature, they will remain fresh for up to 7 days.

If you’d like to make them in advance, you can freeze either the unbaked dough or the baked cookies. For unbaked dough, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag; freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and baking. For baked cookies, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Dust them with a fresh layer of powdered sugar once thawed, as freezing can sometimes dull the coating.

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some delightful ways to put your own spin on Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies:

Nut Variations: Replace almonds with finely ground hazelnuts, pecans, or walnuts for a different nutty profile.
Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Spiced Cookies: Mix ½ teaspoon cardamom or nutmeg into the dough for a more traditional Scandinavian flavor.
Chocolate Finish: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make the recipe suitable for all guests.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Soften Butter Properly: Room-temperature butter should be soft enough to press but not melted. This ensures proper creaming with the sugar.
Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour.
Avoid Overmixing: Once the flour is added, mix only until incorporated to keep the cookies tender.
Dust While Warm: The cookies must be warm—not hot—when rolled in sugar, or the coating won’t adhere properly.
Consistent Shapes: Use a small cookie scoop for uniform size, ensuring even baking.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are versatile enough for many holiday settings. Serve them as part of a Christmas cookie platter alongside gingerbread, sugar cookies, and shortbread. They pair beautifully with hot drinks like mulled cider, spiced tea, or coffee, and their delicate texture makes them the perfect companion for rich holiday desserts.

For gifting, stack them neatly in a festive tin lined with parchment paper, or package a few in cellophane bags tied with ribbon. Their snowy powdered sugar coating makes them visually striking, so they double as edible decorations for a holiday table.

For a family tradition, set aside time to bake them together—children can help shape the crescents or roll them in sugar. Not only will you end up with delicious cookies, but you’ll also create cherished holiday memories.

Conclusion

Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies are a holiday treasure—simple to prepare, wonderfully delicate, and endlessly versatile. With their almond flavor, tender crumb, and snowy sugar coating, they embody the cozy spirit of Scandinavian baking. Whether served at festive gatherings, packaged as gifts, or enjoyed quietly with a warm drink, these cookies carry with them a sense of tradition and joy.

By following the steps carefully and embracing the variations, you’ll create a cookie that not only delights the palate but also becomes part of your family’s holiday tradition. These cookies are more than just treats; they are edible heirlooms that connect us to loved ones and to the warmth of the season.

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Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies

Author: hafsahafsa
Total Time: 34 minutes active + chilling
Yield: 36 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Ruthie’s Scandinavian Christmas Cookies are buttery, almond-flavored, and dusted with snowy powdered sugar. Delicate and festive, these cookies melt in your mouth and bring the cozy charm of Scandinavian baking to your holiday table.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

2 ¼ cups (270 g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened

½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar

½ cup (60 g) finely ground almonds or almond flour

1 large egg yolk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon almond extract

¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted (for dusting)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, mixed with powdered sugar)

Instructions

Prepare Dough: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolk, vanilla, and almond extract.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour, ground almonds, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
Chill Dough: Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
Shape Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into logs and form crescents, or roll into balls. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Bake: Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges turn lightly golden. Keep tops pale. Cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Dust with Sugar: While still warm, roll or sprinkle cookies with powdered sugar (with or without cinnamon). Let cool completely before serving.