Hjónabandssæla

Hjónabandssæla Recipe - Traditional Icelandic Rhubarb Oatmeal Cake

Region / culture: Iceland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Hjónabandssæla, also known as Icelandic Happy Marriage Cake, is a traditional Icelandic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This delicious cake is made with a sweet oatmeal and flour base, topped with a layer of jam, and finished off with a crumbly topping. It is a simple yet satisfying treat that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Hjónabandssæla has been a popular dessert in Iceland for many years. The name translates to "Happy Marriage Cake" in English, and it is often served at weddings and other special occasions. The cake is said to symbolize the sweetness and harmony of marriage, making it a fitting choice for celebrations of love and unity.

Ingredients

200 ml oatmeal
100 ml whole wheat flour
100 ml flour
100 ml brown sugar, well packed
0.25 tsp baking soda (optional)
100 g butter/margarine, semi-soft
1 egg
as needed rhubarb jam or stewed prunes

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the dry ingredients.
Add the butter or margarine and mix thoroughly using your hands.
Next, add the egg and continue mixing until well combined.
Take the dough and press it into a round baking tin, reserving some for the topping.
Spread the jam evenly over the dough and crumble the remaining dough on top of the cake.
If desired, use the leftover dough to create a lattice pattern on the cake.
Bake the cake at 200°C for approximately 20 minutes, or until it turns a dark, golden color.
Serve the cake hot or cold. Enjoy!

Variations

Try using different types of jam or fruit preserves for the topping.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and spicy flavor.
Experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the dough thoroughly to ensure a smooth and even texture.

- Press the dough firmly into the baking tin to create a sturdy base for the cake.

- Be creative with the topping - you can use any type of jam or fruit preserve that you like.

- For a decorative touch, try creating a lattice pattern with the leftover dough on top of the cake before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Hjónabandssæla is best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Mixing the dough by hand ensures a crumbly and rustic texture.

- Pressing the dough firmly into the baking tin creates a sturdy base for the cake.

- Baking the cake at a high temperature ensures a golden and crispy crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute the oatmeal with almond flour for a gluten-free version of the cake.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

- The cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cake on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar. - Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Hjónabandssæla pairs well with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a hot cup of tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, simply place the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Calories per serving: 250

Carbohydrates

- Oatmeal: 200 ml

- Whole wheat flour: 100 ml

- Flour: 100 ml

- Brown sugar: 100 ml

- Total Carbohydrates: 400 ml

Fats

- Margarine: 100 g

- Total Fats: 100 g

Proteins

- Egg: 1

- Total Proteins: 1

Vitamins and minerals

Prunes: as needed

Alergens

Contains gluten, eggs, and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Hjónabandssæla is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and fats. It is a sweet treat that is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Hjónabandssæla is a delightful Icelandic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its sweet oatmeal base, jam topping, and crumbly texture, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this traditional treat and savor the flavors of Iceland in every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a handwritten note tucked away in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The recipe was for a traditional Icelandic dessert called Hjónabandssæla, which translates to "happy marriage cake." The name alone intrigued me, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I had always been fascinated by different cultures and their culinary traditions, so I was excited to try my hand at making this Icelandic delicacy. I began by researching the origins of the recipe, and I discovered that Hjónabandssæla was a popular dessert served at weddings and special occasions in Iceland. It was said to bring good luck and happiness to newlyweds, hence its name.

I reached out to a friend who had recently visited Iceland, and she graciously shared with me a few tips on how to make the perfect Hjónabandssæla. Armed with this newfound knowledge, I set out to gather the ingredients and get to work in my kitchen.

The recipe called for simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and sour cream, but it was the addition of cardamom that gave the dessert its unique flavor. I carefully measured out each ingredient, following the instructions on the note to the letter. As I mixed the dough together, the fragrant aroma of cardamom filled the air, transporting me to a faraway land.

Once the dough was ready, I rolled it out into a thin layer and spread a generous amount of rhubarb jam over the top. Rhubarb was a common ingredient in Icelandic desserts, and its tartness would complement the sweetness of the cake perfectly. I folded the edges of the dough over the jam, creating a rustic, yet beautiful, dessert.

As I slid the Hjónabandssæla into the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement. I knew that this dessert would not only be delicious but also a testament to my love for cooking and exploring new recipes. The scent of baking cake filled the kitchen, and I eagerly awaited the moment when I could finally taste the fruits of my labor.

When the timer went off, I carefully removed the Hjónabandssæla from the oven and let it cool on the counter. The golden crust glistened in the light, and I couldn't wait to cut into it and see how it turned out. I sliced a piece for myself and took a bite, savoring the flavors that danced on my tongue.

The combination of the buttery crust, tangy rhubarb jam, and aromatic cardamom was nothing short of perfection. I knew that I had stumbled upon a truly special recipe, one that I would cherish and share with my loved ones for years to come. As I sat at the kitchen table, enjoying my slice of Hjónabandssæla, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the journey that had led me to this moment.

In that instant, I understood the power of food to connect us to different cultures and traditions, to bring joy and happiness to our lives. And as I savored the last bite of my Hjónabandssæla, I whispered a silent thank you to the unknown hands that had passed down this recipe to me, and to the magic of cooking that had brought us together.