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Danish Kringla Puff Pastry: Flaky, Buttery, and Irresistible

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Kringla (Danish Puff Pastry)

Description

Kringla, a traditional Danish puff pastry, is a delightful treat that showcases the delicate art of pastry making. Known for its flaky texture and rich flavor, this dessert is one of my mom’s specialties. Despite its indulgent nature, this pastry is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. The lightness makes it suitable for summer, while its richness provides comfort in the colder months.


Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 tablespoons water

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup flour
  • 3 eggs

For the Icing

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 1626.4 kcal
  • Fat: 101.1 g
  • Saturated Fat: 61 g
  • Cholesterol: 562.3 mg
  • Sodium: 768.5 mg
  • Carbohydrates: 156.6 g
  • Fiber: 3.4 g
  • Sugar: 60.1 g
  • Protein: 23.6 g

Yield

  • Recipe Yield: 2 kringlas

Ratings

  • Aggregated Rating: 5 stars
  • Review Count: 9

Cooking and Preparation Times

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Making the Crust

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Prepare the Dough: Cut 1/2 cup of butter into 1 cup of flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of water and form the dough into a ball.
  • Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions. On an ungreased baking sheet, shape each portion into a 3-inch by 12-inch strip.

2. Preparing the Topping

  • Heat Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, heat 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup water to a full rolling boil.
  • Add Flour: Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of flour and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Return the mixture to low heat and stir vigorously until it forms a ball, about 1 minute.
  • Incorporate Eggs: Remove from heat and beat in 3 eggs, one at a time, until smooth.
  • Spread Topping: Divide the topping mixture in half and spread each portion over the prepared crusts.

3. Baking the Pastry

  • Bake: Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until they are golden brown and crispy.

4. Making the Icing

  • Prepare Icing: While the pastries are baking, sift 1 cup of powdered sugar into a medium bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Finishing Touches

  • Cool and Ice: After the pastries have baked and cooled, drizzle the icing over them. Allow the icing to set before cutting the pastries into strips.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Kringla

Crust Tips

  • Cold Butter: Ensure the butter for the crust is cold to achieve a flaky texture.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until the dough comes together to avoid a tough crust.

Topping Tips

  • Consistent Stirring: Stir vigorously when incorporating the flour to avoid lumps.
  • Smooth Eggs: Add eggs one at a time and beat well after each addition for a smooth topping.

Icing Tips

  • Smooth Icing: Sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps in your icing.
  • Adjust Consistency: If the icing is too thick, add a few more drops of milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

  • Accompaniments: Serve the kringla with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The rich, buttery pastry pairs wonderfully with the bitterness of coffee or the fragrant notes of tea.
  • Occasions: Kringla is perfect for dessert after a family dinner, a treat at a brunch gathering, or a sweet indulgence for afternoon tea.

Variations

  • Almond Kringla: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the crust dough for a deeper almond flavor throughout the pastry.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the icing.

Storage

  • Room Temperature: Store the kringla in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the pastries in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.

History and Background

Kringla, a traditional Danish pastry, has its roots in Scandinavian baking traditions. The word “kringla” translates to “pretzel” in Danish, reflecting the original shape of these pastries. However, the modern version is often baked as strips, as presented in this recipe. These pastries are typically enjoyed during the Christmas season but have become a beloved treat year-round due to their irresistible flavor and texture.


Conclusion

Kringla is a testament to the richness of Danish pastry traditions. Its flaky crust and rich topping make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Embrace the art of pastry making and enjoy the delightful experience of baking and savoring these delicious Danish pastries.

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