Painikeksi

Painikeksi is a Finnish term that translates to "button cookie" or "press cookie." It refers to a type of cookie dough that is traditionally made by pressing it into small, decorative molds. These molds are often made of metal or wood and can be simple shapes or intricate designs. The dough is then carefully pressed into the mold, and the excess is scraped away.

The dough itself is typically a simple shortbread-like mixture, often featuring butter, sugar, flour, and sometimes an egg yolk for richness. Flavorings like vanilla or lemon zest are common additions. Once pressed into the molds, the cookies are baked until golden brown. The indentation left by the mold is a characteristic feature of painikeksi.

Historically, painikeksi were a popular treat, especially during festive occasions and holidays in Finland. The decorative molds allowed for a visually appealing cookie that could be easily produced in large batches. They are often enjoyed with coffee or tea. While the tradition of using specific molds might be less common today than in the past, the concept of a simple, pressed cookie remains a recognizable part of Finnish baking. Variations of this type of cookie can be found in other Scandinavian countries as well, often with regional differences in ingredients or mold designs.