Swedish Country Inn’s Rusks Recipe
Description
Welcome to a taste of small-town charm with these Swedish Country Inn Rusks, a delightful treat that will transport you straight to Lindsborg, Kansas, affectionately known as “Little Sweden USA.” This quaint town is known for its cobblestone streets, Dala horses adorning homes, and a rich Swedish heritage that captivates all who visit. Lindsborg is also home to the famous Swedish Country Inn, a Bed & Breakfast that has earned its place in local culinary history with their addicting rusks—essentially the Swedish version of biscotti, perfect for dunking into a hot cup of coffee.
Years ago, I discovered these rusks, and they quickly became a cherished memory of the Swedish Country Inn. My mother, a frequent visitor, couldn’t get enough of them. After some time, I found the recipe, and since then, I’ve been able to recreate the crispy, nutty goodness in my own kitchen. With their warm, nutty flavor and perfect crunch, these rusks are an ideal addition to any brunch or coffee break. Let’s get baking!
Recipe Overview
- Category: Breads
- Cuisine: Swedish, Scandinavian, European
- Serving Size: 1 (Yield depends on cutting size)
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Shortening | ½ cup |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Baking Powder | ½ tsp |
| Pecans (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| All-purpose Flour | 3 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3979.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 192.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 36.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 223.4 mg |
| Sodium | 2945.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 514.6 g |
| Fiber | 20.6 g |
| Sugars | 217.3 g |
| Protein | 63.6 g |
Instructions
-
Cream Together Shortening and Sugar
Start by creaming the shortening and sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the ingredients until they form a light, fluffy mixture. This will help the rusks have a soft texture on the inside. -
Add Wet Ingredients
To the creamed shortening and sugar, add the buttermilk and egg. Mix these wet ingredients into the creamed mixture until well incorporated. -
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. The dough will be a bit stiff, but this is perfectly normal. -
Add Pecans
Gently fold the chopped pecans into the dough. Their nutty crunch will add a wonderful texture to the rusks. -
Prepare the Pan
Grease a 9×12-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. Spread the dough evenly into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. -
Bake
Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 1 hour. The top should turn golden brown, and the dough will firm up. -
Brush with Cream
After removing the rusks from the oven, brush the top of the baked dough with cream. This will give the rusks a rich, glossy finish and enhance the flavor. -
Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar (Optional)
For an added touch of sweetness and spice, sprinkle the top of the rusks with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while they are still warm. This is completely optional but adds an extra layer of flavor. -
Cool for 15 Minutes
Let the rusks cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This short rest allows the texture to set and makes the next step easier. -
Cut into Strips
Once the rusks have cooled slightly, turn them out onto a baking sheet. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips that are approximately 1 ½ inches by 3 inches. These strips are the base of your rusks, and they will dry out in the oven to become crispy. -
Dry the Rusks
To get that signature crunch, place the cut strips back into the oven and bake at a low temperature (200°F or 93°C) for 1 to 2 hours. This slow drying process ensures that your rusks are crispy on the outside, but still slightly tender inside. -
Storage
These rusks will keep for a long time in an airtight container, which helps maintain their crisp texture. For long-term storage, they freeze well too, so feel free to make a batch ahead of time for a future coffee break!
Tips for Success
- Crispness: For even more crunch, consider doubling the drying time in the oven, but keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
- Pecans: Feel free to substitute the pecans with other nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer a different flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding a little vanilla extract or almond extract for a subtle flavor boost.
- Serving Ideas: Serve these rusks with coffee, tea, or as part of a Swedish-inspired brunch spread. They also pair wonderfully with a dollop of jam for an extra treat.
Reviews
Rated 5 Stars (2 reviews)
“These rusks are so crispy and perfect for dunking into my morning coffee. I’ve made them several times now, and each time they disappear within days!”
— Laura S.
“I’m originally from Lindsborg and have stayed at the Swedish Country Inn many times. This recipe is spot-on, and now I can enjoy the rusks at home anytime!”
— Mark H.
Conclusion
These Swedish Country Inn Rusks are a perfect way to add a bit of Swedish tradition to your kitchen. Whether you’re reminiscing about a cozy bed-and-breakfast stay or simply want a delicious treat to enjoy with coffee, this recipe is sure to impress. With their nutty crunch and subtle sweetness, they’re more than just a snack—they’re a slice of Swedish heritage.
