Serinakaker is a Norwegian butter cookie made with flour, granulated sugar, eggs, and topped with pearl sugar.[1] They have a similar texture to shortbread and are served around Christmastime. Occasionally, they are topped with slivered almonds or various nuts.[2]
History
The first incarnation of serinakaker was in a household management text by Hanna Winsnes from 1845 called “Textbook in the various branches of the household”.[3][4] Serinakaker have been prevalent in Norway, since before the introduction of the oven, being originally prepared using a hot iron.
While the origin of the name is still debated, the common theory is that it was named after a woman named Serena, who would bake them frequently.[citation needed]