Swedish Brownies

Swedish Brownies Recipe - Delicious and Easy-to-Make

Region / culture: Sweden | Servings: 12

Introduction

Swedish Brownies are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. These brownies have a unique flavor thanks to the addition of anise, giving them a slightly spicy and aromatic taste.

History

Swedish Brownies have been a popular dessert in Sweden for many years. They are often enjoyed during fika, a Swedish tradition of taking a break to enjoy coffee and pastries. The addition of anise in this recipe gives these brownies a distinct Swedish twist.

Ingredients

2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup melted butter or margarine
1 tsp almond flavoring (or lemon, anise)

How to prepare

Beat the eggs until they become light.
Add the sugar and mix it well.
Fold in the remaining ingredients.
Spread the mixture in a greased pan.
Bake it at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the anise with cinnamon or cardamom for a different spice profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to beat the eggs until they are light and fluffy to ensure a light and airy texture in the brownies.

- Folding in the dry ingredients gently will help prevent overmixing, resulting in a tender brownie.

- Greasing the pan before spreading the batter will help prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the brownies after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Swedish Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Baking at a lower temperature of 325°F (163°C) helps to ensure that the brownies cook evenly and do not become overbaked.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used in place of margarine for a richer flavor.

- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Swedish Brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the brownies into squares and dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy Swedish Brownies with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a classic Swedish fika experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Swedish Brownies contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Swedish Brownies contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Swedish Brownies contains approximately 10g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Swedish Brownies contains approximately 2g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Swedish Brownies are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and wheat, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Swedish Brownies are a sweet treat that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats, making them a delicious indulgence.

Summary

Swedish Brownies are a delightful dessert that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a hint of anise, these brownies have a unique flavor that will impress your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that has stood the test of time. It was back in the summer of 1972 when I was visiting my dear friend Greta in Sweden. She was a fantastic cook and had invited me to join her in the kitchen as she prepared a special treat for her family - Swedish Brownies.

As soon as I walked into Greta's cozy kitchen, I was hit with the warm and comforting aroma of chocolate and cinnamon. The sight of her bustling around the kitchen, mixing ingredients with precision and care, filled me with a sense of excitement and anticipation. I knew that whatever she was making was going to be delicious.

Greta handed me a worn recipe card that had been passed down through her family for generations. It was written in her grandmother's elegant script, detailing each step of the process in meticulous detail. I felt honored to be entrusted with such a cherished family recipe, and I vowed to learn it by heart so that I could carry on the tradition in my own kitchen.

The ingredients for the Swedish Brownies were simple yet decadent - butter, sugar, eggs, flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and a hint of almond extract. Greta explained that the key to making these brownies truly special was to use high-quality ingredients and to mix everything by hand, with love and care.

As we worked together to prepare the batter, Greta shared stories from her childhood in Sweden. She told me about how her grandmother used to make these brownies for special occasions, and how they always brought joy and comfort to their family. I could see the twinkle in her eye as she reminisced about those happy times, and I knew that these brownies held a special place in her heart.

Once the batter was ready, Greta poured it into a greased baking dish and popped it into the oven. As the brownies baked, the kitchen filled with the rich, intoxicating scent of chocolate and spices. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product and see if it lived up to the hype.

When the timer finally dinged, Greta pulled the brownies out of the oven and set them on the counter to cool. The top was crackly and golden, with a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. Greta cut the brownies into squares and handed me a piece, still warm from the oven.

I took a bite and was immediately transported to a place of pure bliss. The brownie was dense and fudgy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The cinnamon and almond extract added a subtle complexity to the rich chocolate flavor, making each bite a symphony of taste and texture.

As I savored the brownie, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I thanked Greta for sharing her family's tradition with me and vowed to pass it on to future generations. This recipe was more than just a delicious treat - it was a connection to the past, a link to my dear friend Greta, and a reminder of the power of food to bring people together in love and joy.

Since that fateful day in Greta's kitchen, I have made Swedish Brownies countless times for my own family and friends. Each time I mix the batter by hand, bake it to perfection, and savor that first warm, gooey bite, I am filled with gratitude for the beautiful memories and traditions that food can create. And as I watch my loved ones enjoy these brownies, I know that I am preserving a piece of my heritage for generations to come.