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Irresistible Norwegian Butter Cookies Smultringer Recipe Easy Homemade Treats

Norwegian butter cookies Smultringer - featured image

Smultringer are classic Norwegian ring-shaped butter cookies, crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, with a perfect hint of sweetness. This easy homemade recipe delivers authentic buttery goodness perfect for holidays or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vegetable oil or lard for frying

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (225 g) softened butter with 3/4 cup (150 g) sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1/4 cup (60 ml) buttermilk, starting and ending with flour. Mix gently.
  5. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Roll and cut: Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thickness. Use a large round cutter (3 inches / 7.5 cm diameter) and a smaller one (1 inch / 2.5 cm diameter) to cut out rings.
  7. Heat oil: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or pot.
  8. Fry cookies: Fry a few cookies at a time for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  9. Drain and cool: Use a slotted spoon to transfer cookies to paper towels or a wire rack. Let cool completely before serving.

Notes

Chill dough well before rolling to prevent sticking and spreading during frying. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for best results. Use two cutters for perfect ring shapes. Cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to a week or frozen for 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Norwegian butter cookies, Smultringer, homemade cookies, traditional Norwegian recipe, fried cookies, holiday cookies