Icelandic Donuts

Icelandic Donuts Recipe - Delicious Traditional Treats from Iceland

Region / culture: Iceland | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Icelandic Donuts, also known as Kleinur, are a traditional Icelandic pastry that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. These delicious donuts are fried to perfection and sprinkled with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

History

The recipe for Icelandic Donuts has been passed down through generations in Iceland. It is a beloved treat that is often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays. The donuts are typically made with simple ingredients that are readily available in Icelandic households.

Ingredients

3 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 cup milk or buttermilk
2 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cream of tartar
1.5 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp nutmeg
Enough flour to roll (approx. 4 cups)

How to prepare

Beat the eggs slightly and add the sugar. Continue beating until well combined.
Gradually add the sour cream mixed with soda and milk, alternating with the dry ingredients. You will need approximately 4.5 cups of flour for this step. Mix well.
Pour the mixture onto a floured board and divide it into three portions. Roll each portion out to approximately 0.25 inch thickness.
Cut the rolled dough into 1 inch wide strips, then cut each strip into approximately 2.5 inch long pieces. Make a slit in the center of each piece and fold one end through the slit.
Heat the deep fat Crisco in an electric deep fryer to about 375°F (191°C). Fry the dough pieces, turning them constantly, until they turn golden brown. This should take about 3 minutes.
Once fried, drain the dough pieces on a paper towel. Sprinkle them with powdered sugar before serving.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the powdered sugar for a different flavor profile.
Drizzle the donuts with melted chocolate for a decadent twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fry the donuts in hot oil to ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy.

- Be sure to drain the donuts on a paper towel after frying to remove excess oil.

- Sprinkle the donuts with powdered sugar while they are still warm for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Icelandic Donuts are best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack or dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to fry the donuts in hot oil to ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy.

- Drain the donuts on a paper towel after frying to remove excess oil.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the donuts.

- If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Icelandic Donuts ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Icelandic Donuts on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Icelandic Donuts pair well with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Icelandic Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the donuts in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Icelandic Donuts contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Icelandic Donuts contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Icelandic Donuts contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Icelandic Donuts contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Icelandic Donuts are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Icelandic Donuts contain eggs and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Icelandic Donuts are a delicious treat that is best enjoyed in moderation due to their high calorie and fat content.

Summary

Icelandic Donuts are a delicious and traditional pastry that is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy these sweet treats with a hot beverage for a delightful snack or dessert.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Icelandic Donuts. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were changing colors and a gentle breeze was blowing through the kitchen window. I had just finished baking a batch of my famous cinnamon rolls and was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother.

As I turned the pages, a worn piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the ground. Curious, I picked it up and saw the words "Icelandic Donuts" scrawled in elegant cursive at the top. My heart skipped a beat as I read through the ingredients and instructions. I had never heard of Icelandic Donuts before, but something about the recipe spoke to me.

I could almost picture the rugged Icelandic landscape, with its volcanoes and geysers, as I imagined the taste of these sweet treats. I knew I had to try making them. So, I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen.

The recipe called for flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, and a hint of cardamom. I mixed the dough by hand, feeling the silky smooth texture come together under my fingertips. As I kneaded the dough, memories of my own mother teaching me how to bake flooded my mind.

My mother was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new recipes and techniques. She taught me everything I know about cooking and baking, passing down her knowledge like a precious family heirloom. I could almost hear her voice guiding me as I shaped the dough into small balls and let them rise on the counter.

Once the dough had doubled in size, I carefully dropped each ball into a pot of hot oil. The sizzle and pop of the frying dough filled the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. I watched as the donuts turned golden brown, flipping them over with a slotted spoon to ensure they cooked evenly.

When the donuts were done, I dusted them with powdered sugar and took a bite. The flavor was unlike anything I had ever tasted before - sweet and slightly spicy, with a hint of warmth from the cardamom. Each bite melted in my mouth, leaving me craving more.

I shared the Icelandic Donuts with my family and friends, who all marveled at the unique flavor and texture. They begged me for the recipe, but I kept it a secret, savoring the knowledge that I had discovered something truly special.

From that day on, Icelandic Donuts became a staple in my kitchen. I would make them for special occasions, holidays, or simply as a treat for myself. Each time I made them, I felt a connection to the rugged beauty of Iceland and the mysterious origins of the recipe.

As I grew older, I began to realize the true power of food and recipes. They have the ability to transport us to far-off lands, connect us to our past, and create lasting memories with the ones we love. And so, every time I make Icelandic Donuts, I am reminded of that crisp autumn day when I stumbled upon a recipe that changed my life forever.