Kämmekkä

Kämmekkä is a traditional Finnish dessert or confection. It is typically made from rye flour, butter, and sugar, often with the addition of egg and sometimes spices like cardamom. The dough is usually rolled out thinly and then cut into shapes, traditionally squares or diamonds. These shapes are then baked until golden brown and crisp. Kämmekkä has a distinct, somewhat rustic flavor profile due to the rye flour. It is a relatively simple dessert to prepare and has been a part of Finnish home baking for generations. While not as widely known internationally as some other Finnish pastries, kämmekkä holds a place in traditional Finnish cuisine, particularly in rural areas. It is often served with coffee or tea and can be enjoyed as a snack or a light dessert. Variations exist in recipes, with some families adding nuts or dried fruit, though the core ingredients remain consistent.