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Prep Time: 0 Minutes Cook Time: 0 Minutes |
Ready In: 0 Minutes Servings: 1 |
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Speculaas are part of the Dutch tradition of St. Nicholas Day, celebrated December 5 in Holland. The night before, children leave carrots in their shoes for the Saint's horse, and in the morning, each child finds treats in place of the carrot. During the evening, the larger gifts are received at the end of a treature hunt. Speculaas that have been baked in people-shaped molds called bachelors and spinsters are given to single friends. Ingredients:
1 cup butter, softened |
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar |
2 tablespoons milk |
2 teaspoons grated orange rind |
2 cups all-purpose flour |
1 tablespoon baking powder |
1/2 teaspoon salt |
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon |
1 teaspoon grated nutmeg |
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves |
1/2 teaspoon pepper |
1/2 teaspoon anise seeds, crushed |
1/2 cup blanched whole almonds |
Directions:
1. Cream butter in a large mixing bowl; add sugar, and beat until light and fluffy. Add milk and orange rind; beat until well blended.
2. Sift together remaining ingredients, except almonds, in a medium mixing bowl. Gradually add to creamed mixture, beating well. (Use additional milk, if necessary.)
3. Divide dough in half; press each portion to 1/2-inch thickness on a greased cookie sheet. Cut each portion into 10 rectangles, and press 4 almonds into each rectangle. (Wooden cookie molds may be used to press dough into assorted shapes, omitting almonds.)
4. Preheat oven to 425° for 7 minutes; reduce heat to 325°, and bake cookies for 25 minutes. Cool slightly on cookie sheets. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. Break cookies apart, and store in airtight containers.
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