Tooele Woman Keeps Dutch Traditions Alive

Amy Kelly met with Tooele resident Marlene Long at the Van Horssen Family Reunion and learned how she is keeping her Dutch heritage alive by sharing it with the newer generation. Marlene, her siblings, and their parents arrived by boat from Holland in September 1956. At the reunions they enjoy each other's company and also share Dutch language, music, food, traditions, and Christmas events.





Marlene's Pepernoten Recipe (Dutch cookies)

1 cup margarine or butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup sour cream
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp soda
1 cup molasses
2 cups sugar (I use 1 cup because we like less sugar)
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cloves
1 tsp anise extract
6 or more cups flour

Mix all ingredients together to make a stiff dough, slightly sticky. Chill overnight in refrigerator in covered bowl. Roll out into pencil-thin strips and cut into 1/2" x 1/2" pieces. Bake in 400 degree oven on cookie sheet until barely tan, 6 minutes. Store in airtight container.