Indulge in the delightful Crispy Norwegian Bows—a cherished family cookie recipe that has stood the test of time. Passed down through generations, this recipe has become a beloved tradition at Janie Norwood’s home in Albany, Georgia. With a quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can make a generous batch of 4 dozen delicious cookies.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 to 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for deep-fat frying
- Confectioners’ sugar
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes light and lemon-colored. Add the heavy whipping cream and ground cardamom, mixing well. Gradually add the all-purpose flour until the dough reaches a firm consistency suitable for rolling.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 15-inch square. Use a pastry wheel or knife to cut the dough into 15×1½-inch strips, then cut diagonally at 2½-inch intervals. In the center of each diamond-shaped piece, make a 1-inch slit, then pull one end through the slit to create a bow shape.
- In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat the oil to 375°. Fry the bows a few at a time for 20-40 seconds or until they turn golden brown on both sides. Drain the fried bows on paper towels and dust them generously with confectioners’ sugar.
YIELD: Makes 4 dozen cookies.
PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 minutes.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Be cautious while frying the bows to ensure they cook evenly and don’t become overly crispy.
TIPS:
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon to the confectioners’ sugar before dusting the cookies.
- Serve the Crispy Norwegian Bows with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful pairing.
Crispy Norwegian Bows are a delightful treat that has become a cherished tradition in Janie Norwood’s home in Albany, Georgia. Passed down through generations, this family cookie recipe has retained its charm and continues to be a beloved “must” during special occasions and gatherings. With a quick and simple preparation process of just 30 minutes, you can create 4 dozen delicious cookies that are sure to delight both young and old.
The combination of egg yolks, sugar, and heavy whipping cream results in a light and lemon-colored mixture that forms the base of the dough. Infused with the aromatic spice of cardamom, the dough is rolled out and cut into diamond-shaped pieces, creating the iconic bow shape that gives these cookies their name.
As the Crispy Norwegian Bows are gently fried to golden perfection, their sweet and inviting aroma fills the kitchen, creating an air of anticipation. Once drained and dusted with confectioners’ sugar, these cookies are ready to be enjoyed.
These delightful fried cookies, known as Fattigmann or Fattigmann Bakkels (Poor Man Cakes) in Norwegian, have a rich history that dates back to the 1800s when Norwegian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to new lands. Similar to the Polish chrusciki, these fried cookies are a celebration of culture and heritage.
When serving the Crispy Norwegian Bows, consider offering them alongside a steaming cup of hot tea or coffee. The warm and crispy cookies, coupled with a comforting beverage, create a delightful pairing that invites moments of relaxation and enjoyment.
In conclusion, Crispy Norwegian Bows are a delightful fusion of flavors and traditions, passed down through generations to become a beloved family treasure. Their simplicity in preparation and delightful taste make them an excellent choice for gatherings and special occasions. Whether you’re savoring them on their own or pairing them with a warm beverage, these cookies are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who taste them.
