Ingredients

250 g butter

200 g sugar

1 egg

200 ml tumma siirappi (dark sugar beet syrup, or substitute with maple syrup)

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground ginger

1 tsp ground cloves

1 tsp ground cardamom

1 tsp ground black pepper

2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

600 g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

Finely grated zest of one organic orange

Preparation

1) Gently bring the butter, sugar, syrup, and spices to a simmer. Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely.

2) Stir in the egg until well combined.

3) Add the orange zest and mix thoroughly.

4) Combine the bicarbonate of soda with a little of the flour, then gradually add to the mixture. Continue adding flour until a smooth, non-sticky dough forms.

5) Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.

6) Preheat the oven to 190°C (fan).

7) Roll out the dough in small batches on a lightly floured surface to a thin layer (about 2-3 mm) and cut out your desired shapes.

8) Place the biscuits on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.

9) Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Tips & Variations

For an especially festive touch, add finely chopped almonds or pistachios to the dough.

For spicier biscuits, increase the amount of ginger or black pepper to taste.

Once baked, the biscuits can be decorated with icing or colourful sprinkles.

The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days.