Kringla Recipes: A Delicious Dive into Scandinavian Baking
Kringla, those delightful, twisted Scandinavian cookies, are a staple in many Nordic households, especially around the holidays. But don’t let their traditional status fool you; they are incredibly versatile and easy to adapt to modern tastes. This article will guide you through various kringla recipes, from the classic Norwegian version to exciting variations, complete with detailed steps and helpful tips. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will transport you to the heart of Scandinavia!
What is Kringla?
Kringla, meaning “pretzel” or “ring” in Norwegian, is a type of cookie or biscuit that is traditionally made in a pretzel-like shape. They are typically made from a simple dough of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, and are often flavored with cardamom or vanilla. Kringla are often enjoyed plain, but can also be decorated with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a simple glaze. Their texture can vary from crisp and crunchy to soft and cakey, depending on the recipe and baking method.
The History of Kringla
The history of kringla is intertwined with the rich baking traditions of Scandinavia. These cookies have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations found across different Nordic countries. While the exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, it is believed that kringla evolved from medieval pretzels brought to Scandinavia by German bakers. Over time, the recipe was adapted to incorporate local ingredients and flavors, resulting in the distinct kringla we know today.
Kringla are often associated with festive occasions, particularly Christmas and other holidays. They are a cherished part of Scandinavian culture, passed down through generations and enjoyed by families during special gatherings.
Why You’ll Love Making Kringla
* **Simple Ingredients:** Kringla recipes typically call for pantry staples, making them accessible and easy to prepare.
* **Versatile Flavor:** The basic dough can be adapted with various flavorings, from classic cardamom to modern citrus or chocolate.
* **Fun to Shape:** Twisting and shaping the kringla dough is a fun and engaging activity, especially for baking with kids.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** Kringla are ideal for gifting and sharing with friends and family.
* **Delicious and Satisfying:** Whether you prefer a crispy or cakey texture, kringla offer a delightful treat that is both satisfying and comforting.
Classic Norwegian Kringla Recipe
This recipe is for classic Norwegian Kringla, also sometimes called Hardanger Kringla. These are a drier, more biscuit-like kringla, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* Optional: Pearl sugar for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender texture.
2. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough kringla.
5. **Chill the Dough:** Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents the kringla from spreading too much during baking.
6. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. **Shape the Kringla:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out your shapes. Traditionally, kringla are shaped like pretzels, figure eights, or rings. You can also use a sharp knife or pastry wheel to cut out desired shapes.
8. **Transfer to Baking Sheets:** Carefully transfer the shaped kringla to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily.
10. **Cool:** Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the kringla cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These are best enjoyed cooled completely, and are traditionally served plain with coffee or tea. However, if desired you can sprinkle with pearl sugar before baking.
Soft and Cakey Kringla Recipe
If you prefer a softer, more cake-like kringla, this recipe is for you. These kringla are tender and moist, with a hint of sweetness and the flavor of cardamom.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. **Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined. The sour cream adds moisture and tenderness to the kringla.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom. The cardamom adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the kringla.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Chill the Dough:** Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling is important for this dough as well.
6. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. **Shape the Kringla:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into long strips about 1 inch wide. Twist each strip into a pretzel shape or tie into a knot. You can also simply form them into rings.
8. **Transfer to Baking Sheets:** Carefully transfer the shaped kringla to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them.
10. **Cool:** Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the kringla cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These are delicious on their own, or with a simple glaze.
Lemon Glazed Kringla Recipe
This variation adds a bright and zesty twist to classic kringla. The lemon glaze complements the buttery flavor of the cookies perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* Follow the recipe for Soft and Cakey Kringla.
**For the Lemon Glaze:**
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Kringla:** Follow the instructions for the Soft and Cakey Kringla recipe.
2. **Make the Lemon Glaze:** While the kringla are cooling, prepare the lemon glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Add more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the kringla, but thin enough to drizzle easily.
3. **Glaze the Kringla:** Once the kringla are completely cool, dip them into the lemon glaze or drizzle the glaze over them. Place the glazed kringla on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set. You can add sprinkles before the glaze sets for an extra touch.
Chocolate Kringla Recipe
For chocolate lovers, this recipe is a must-try. The addition of cocoa powder to the dough creates a rich, chocolatey flavor that is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Chill the Dough:** Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. **Shape the Kringla:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or sharp knife to cut out desired shapes. Dip the tops in granulated sugar before baking.
8. **Transfer to Baking Sheets:** Carefully transfer the shaped kringla to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them.
10. **Cool:** Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the kringla cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cardamom Kringla with Almonds
Cardamom and almonds are a match made in heaven, and they elevate these kringla to another level of deliciousness.
**Ingredients:**
* Follow the recipe for Soft and Cakey Kringla.
**For the Topping:**
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup sliced almonds
* 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Kringla:** Follow the instructions for the Soft and Cakey Kringla recipe.
2. **Prepare the Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the sliced almonds, granulated sugar, and ground cardamom.
3. **Brush with Egg Wash:** Before baking, brush each kringla with the beaten egg. This will give them a shiny, golden brown finish.
4. **Sprinkle with Almond Topping:** Sprinkle the almond topping over the egg-washed kringla.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The almond topping should be lightly toasted.
6. **Cool:** Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the kringla cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Baking Perfect Kringla
* **Use Softened Butter:** Softened butter is crucial for creating a light and fluffy dough. Make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing the dough can result in tough kringla. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
* **Chill the Dough:** Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the kringla from spreading too much during baking. It also makes the dough easier to handle.
* **Use Parchment Paper:** Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper will prevent the kringla from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
* **Watch the Baking Time:** Kringla can burn easily, so keep a close eye on them while they are baking. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.
* **Cool Completely:** Let the kringla cool completely before glazing or serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and prevent the glaze from melting.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings. Try adding citrus zest, spices, or nuts to the dough. You can also decorate the kringla with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a simple glaze.
Serving and Storing Kringla
Kringla are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for several days. To store kringla, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
Kringla are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with coffee, tea, or milk. They are a perfect treat for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert.
Kringla also make a wonderful gift. Package them in a pretty box or bag and share them with friends and family.
Kringla Variations Around Scandinavia
While the basic recipe remains similar, slight variations exist across different Scandinavian countries. In some regions, you might find kringla flavored with anise, while others might incorporate different types of nuts or spices.
* **Denmark:** Danish kringle often includes marzipan and is larger and more pastry-like than the Norwegian variety. These are more commonly known as “Kringle” without the “a” at the end.
* **Sweden:** Swedish kringlor are similar to Norwegian kringla but may include pearl sugar or almond slivers on top.
* **Iceland:** Icelandic kringlur are often flavored with cardamom and have a softer, cake-like texture.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Kringla Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the classic kringla recipes, why not get creative and try some exciting variations?
* **Spiced Kringla:** Add a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to the dough for a festive flavor.
* **Nutella-Filled Kringla:** Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the dough before shaping the kringla for a decadent treat.
* **Cranberry Orange Kringla:** Incorporate dried cranberries and orange zest into the dough for a tangy and refreshing flavor.
* **Savory Kringla:** Experiment with savory kringla by adding herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough.
Conclusion
Kringla are a delightful and versatile treat that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you prefer a crispy or cakey texture, there is a kringla recipe out there for you. With their simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious flavor, kringla are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Scandinavian baking! Happy baking!