A traditional Christmas treat.
The dough can be kept, suitably wrapped and chilled for months. Just bake what you need.
I have been using this recipe for so many years i can no longer remember where it came from, apologies to the author.
Latvian Spice Cookies
1 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup molasses or golden syrup
375 g butter
125 g lard
1 1/4 cups sugar
7 cups flour
2 egg yolk
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp white pepper
2 tsp cardamon
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cloves
2 tsp coriander
2 tsp ginger
1 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp mace
1 egg for glazing
almonds for decorating if desired.
1. 1. Heat fats, sugar and syrups till large bubbles form.
2. Add spices then baking soda.
3. Put in large bowl and mix well.
4. Add 3 cups of the flour and beat well. Allow to cool.
5. Add the egg yolks and beat. Allow to cool.
6 Add baking powder to remaining flour and add gradually to dough.
7. Knead until flour is absorbed.
8. Allow dough to rest for at least 24 hours (well wrapped dough will keep in the refrigerator for months.)
9. Roll out very thin, cut out shapes, place on greased oven tray, brush with beaten egg and press in an almond.
10. Bake at 180C (about 8 minutes) till golden brown.
Servings: 20
