Bondkakor
Swedish Farmer Cookies
Classic Swedish farmer cookies, also known as Bondkakor, are simple, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delights. Perfect for 'fika' (a coffee break with a treat).
🧂 Ingredients
- 200g Unsalted butter, softened(Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.)
- 100g Granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp Vanilla sugar(Or 1 tsp vanilla extract. Vanilla sugar is common in Scandinavian baking and provides a distinct flavor.)
- 300g All-purpose flour(Sifted for a lighter texture.)
- for topping Pearl sugar (pärlsocker)(This is a coarse sugar that doesn't melt easily during baking, providing a delightful crunch. If unavailable, coarse sanding sugar can be a substitute.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Gradually add the sifted flour to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined and a soft, cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into small balls, about 2-3 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2.5 cm (1 inch) space between them. Gently flatten each ball with the tines of a fork, creating a crosshatch pattern.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Sprinkle the tops of the cookies generously with pearl sugar. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies should not spread much. Watch carefully to prevent overbaking.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes per batch - 5
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up.
⏱️ 5 minutes cooling on sheet + 10 minutes on rack
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- ✓For a more pronounced flavor, consider adding 1/4 cup of finely chopped almonds to the dough along with the flour.
- ✓Do not overbake; the cookies should remain pale with just a hint of golden color on the edges for the best tender texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds to the dough for a nutty flavor and texture.
- Dip cooled cookies halfway into melted dark or milk chocolate.
- Add a pinch of cardamom to the dough for a subtle spice note.