Neula biscuit, also known as neilikka piparkakku in Finnish, is a traditional Christmas cookie that is popular in Finland. These cookies are thin and crisp, with a delicate spice flavor that comes from a blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. In this article, we will explore the history of Neula biscuit, their ingredients, and how to make them at home.
History of Neula Biscuit
Neula biscuits have been a staple of Finnish Christmas celebrations for over a century. They are believed to have originated in the town of Turku in the late 1800s, and quickly became a popular holiday treat throughout Finland. Today, Neula biscuits are still a beloved Christmas tradition in Finland, and are often given as gifts or enjoyed as a sweet snack during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Neula biscuits are made with a few simple ingredients, including:
- Flour
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Molasses
- Egg
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Ginger
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
How to Make Neula Biscuit
Making Neula biscuits requires a bit of patience and attention to detail, but the results are well worth it. Here is a step-by-step guide to making these delicious cookies:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the molasses and egg, and beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each part into a flat disk.
- Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove one disk of dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
- Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into your desired shapes.
- Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the cookies are crisp.
- Repeat with the remaining dough, re-rolling scraps as needed.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Neula biscuits are a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter or can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy winter treat.
- Decorate with icing or sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Package in a pretty tin or box and give as a homemade gift to friends and family.
Neula biscuits are a classic Finnish Christmas treat that are easy to make and delicious to eat. Whether you are celebrating the holidays in Finland or simply looking to try a new cookie recipe, these biscuits are sure to delight your taste buds. So why not give them a try this holiday season?
FAQs
Q. Can I use honey instead of molasses in Neula biscuits?
A. Yes, you can substitute honey for molasses if you prefer. This will result in a slightly different flavor, but the cookies will still be delicious.
Q. How should I store Neula biscuits?
A. Store the cookies in any environment