(Brune kager)
These make a good start to the Christmas recipes, because the dough has to be left for at least 14 days before baking.
1 lb (450 g) treacle, dark syrup
9 oz (250 g) butter
9 oz (250 g) brown sugar
1 oz bitter orange peel
1 tablesp. cinnamon
1 tablesp. ground cloves
½ teasp. cardamom
1 teasp. baking powder
2 tablesp. rosewater
2 lb (1 kg) flour
Almonds
Warm the syrup in a saucepan, add the butter, orange peel, spices and sugar. Stir in the baking powder, dissolved in the rosewater.
Gradually add the flour, kneading thoroughly after each addition.
Turn into a bowl, cover with a cloth and keep cold.
Before baking, roll out thinly and cut into rounds.
Place well apart on a greased baking-sheet, brush with water and decorate with sliced almonds.
Bake for 8-10 min. at 400°F (200°C).
According to custom, the whole family should taste the dough the day it is made in order to bring good luck.
At the same time each member should make a wish - and keep it secret, or it will not come true.