Võiküpsised

Võiküpsised, literally “butter cookies” in Estonian, refer to a family of shortbread‑style biscuits common in Estonia. They are characterized by a simple dough based on butter, sugar and flour, often with eggs and a touch of vanilla or salt. Some recipes may include cream, almond meal, lemon zest, or other flavorings to vary the aroma and texture.

Typical preparation involves creaming softened butter with sugar until light, adding eggs and vanilla if used, and then mixing in flour to form a soft dough. The dough is usually chilled briefly, rolled to a thickness of about 0.5 cm, cut into rounds or other shapes, placed on a baking sheet, and baked at roughly 170–190°C until the edges are lightly golden, typically 8–12 minutes. The cookies can be baked plain or decorated with sugar, icing, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. They are often made in rounds, hearts, stars, or holiday shapes.

Võiküpsised are versatile and are commonly served with tea or coffee. They are a staple in Estonian households, especially during holidays and celebrations, and may be baked for guests or as part of a baked-goods assortment for events. Variations exist across families and regions, with some adding spices such as cardamom or nutmeg.

Storage is simple: once cooled, the cookies keep well in an airtight container for several days. Dough can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for longer storage. Overall, võiküpsised represent a straightforward, adaptable part of Estonian biscuit traditions.