Recipe Book

Danish rice pudding, made with rice, whipped cream, and a hidden almond, is traditionally called "Risalamande." It's a beloved dessert in Denmark, particularly during the Christmas season. The dish is a creamy, sweet rice pudding mixed with whipped cream, sugar, and vanilla, often served with a warm cherry sauce on top. The unique and fun aspect of Risalamande is the single whole almond hidden in the pudding. According to tradition, the person who finds the almond in their serving is awarded a small prize or is said to have good luck. This tradition makes Risalamande not just a dessert but also a playful part of Danish Christmas celebrations.
Last updated 4 months ago

Simple almond butter cookie, decorated with almond slivers, sugar and egg wash. Fantastic dense almond explosion in your mouth, with a crisp texture and wonderful almond coating.
Last updated 4 months ago
Ilse’s Bakery Recipe: LebkuchenSocial Media Image

Lebkuchen, often referred to as German gingerbread, has a long and storied history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Originating in Franconia, Germany, in the city of Nuremberg around the late 13th or early 14th century, Lebkuchen is one of the oldest forms of German baking tradition.

The city of Nuremberg, a major trading hub located on the spice routes, played a significant role in the development of Lebkuchen. The availability of spices such as ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon, which were crucial ingredients in Lebkuchen, contributed to Nuremberg becoming the most famous producer of this delicacy by the 14th century.

The tradition of baking Lebkuchen continues to this day, especially during the Christmas season. Nuremberg still holds the title for being famous for its Lebkuchen, and the cookies are exported all over the world.

Last updated 4 months ago
Ilse’s Bakery Recipe: PfeffernüsseSocial Media Image

The name "Pfeffernüsse" reflects the cookie's distinct ingredients: a blend of spices that traditionally includes pepper (hence the name), along with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and anise. The "nuts" part of the name does not necessarily refer to actual nuts in the ingredients but rather to the small, round shape of the cookies, which are reminiscent of nuts.

The popularity of Pfeffernüsse grew significantly during the 19th century. They became a staple of German Christmas markets and a beloved treat enjoyed during the holiday season. The cookies were often baked in large batches and stored to be enjoyed throughout the Advent season leading up to Christmas.

Pfeffernüsse are known for their hard texture when first baked, which softens over time. This characteristic made them ideal for long-term storage and also symbolizes the cookies' historical roots, when baked goods needed to last through long winters.

Today, Pfeffernüsse continue to be a cherished holiday tradition in many households, known for their unique spicy flavor and rich history that ties back to early European baking traditions.

Last updated 4 months ago
Ilse’s Bakery Recipe: Stollen Social Media Image

Stollen, a quintessential German holiday treat, is a rich, fruit-laden bread traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season. This festive loaf, brimming with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and often containing a marzipan center, is lovingly dusted with powdered sugar, evoking the winter snow, making it not just a delicious delicacy but also a symbol of holiday cheer and tradition
Last updated 4 months ago