Swedish Tea Ring

Swedish Tea Ring Recipe - Authentic Ingredients from Sweden

Region / culture: Sweden | Servings: 8

Introduction

Swedish Tea Ring is a delicious and sweet bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee. This recipe is a traditional Swedish pastry that is loved by many for its warm and comforting flavors.

History

The Swedish Tea Ring has been a popular pastry in Sweden for many years. It is often served during special occasions and holidays, such as Christmas and Easter. The ring shape of the pastry symbolizes unity and togetherness, making it a perfect treat to share with loved ones.

Ingredients

2 cups of body temperature water
2 tbsp of dry yeast
0.5 cup of sugar
2 tsp of salt
3.5 cups of flour
1 egg
0.25 cup of lard
3 cups of flour
0.5 cup of melted butter
2 cups of sugar
2 tbsp of cinnamon
1 dash of nutmeg

How to prepare

Dissolve yeast in warm water until fully dissolved.
Add the next three ingredients and beat well.
Add the egg and lard, then stir.
Mix in the flour.
Grease the top of the dough and cover it.
Refrigerate until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven.
Punch down the dough.
Roll out half of the dough into an oblong shape and butter it.
Sprinkle the sugar and spice mix over it.
Roll it up.
Place it on a large baking sheet.
Snip three-fourths of the way through at one-inch intervals.
Turn the sections until they form a complete ring.
Let it rise until it doubles in size.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Pour confectioners sugar glaze over the warm ring and decorate with nuts, cherries, etc.

Variations

Add raisins or chopped nuts to the sugar and spice mix for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the warm ring for extra sweetness.
Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or ginger for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use body temperature water when dissolving the yeast to ensure that it activates properly.

- Be patient when letting the dough rise, as this is crucial for the texture and flavor of the pastry.

- When rolling out the dough, make sure to spread the butter evenly to ensure a moist and flavorful pastry.

- Don't skip the step of letting the ring rise before baking, as this will help the pastry to become light and fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

Swedish Tea Ring is best served warm with a cup of tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to knead the dough well to develop the gluten and create a light and airy texture.

- When rolling out the dough, use a floured surface to prevent sticking and ensure an even thickness.

- Brushing the ring with an egg wash before baking will give it a shiny and golden crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have lard, you can use vegetable shortening or butter as a substitute.

- You can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Swedish Tea Ring ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply let it come to room temperature before rolling it out and assembling the ring.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the finished ring with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, chopped nuts, or candied fruit for a festive touch. You can also place a few fresh flowers or herbs in the center of the ring for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Swedish Tea Ring pairs well with a variety of beverages such as hot tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. It also goes well with a glass of milk or a fruity white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Swedish Tea Ring in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the ring in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Swedish Tea Ring contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Swedish Tea Ring contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Swedish Tea Ring contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Swedish Tea Ring contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Swedish Tea Ring is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

Swedish Tea Ring is a delicious pastry that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, making it a great treat for special occasions or as an indulgent breakfast option.

Summary

Swedish Tea Ring is a delightful pastry that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its warm spices and sweet flavors, it is sure to become a favorite for special occasions and holidays. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the windows of my grandmother's kitchen. I was just a young girl at the time, eager to learn any and all recipes that my grandmother was willing to teach me. She was a master in the kitchen, able to whip up delicious meals and treats with ease.

On this particular day, my grandmother was going through an old recipe box that had been passed down through generations. As she shuffled through the yellowed index cards and scraps of paper, she came across a faded recipe for Swedish Tea Ring. Her eyes lit up with nostalgia as she recounted how she had learned to make this delightful pastry many years ago.

"It was during my time living in Sweden," she began, her voice soft and full of memories. "I had befriended a lovely woman named Ingrid who was a master baker. She took me under her wing and taught me all of her secrets, including the recipe for this Swedish Tea Ring."

I sat at the kitchen table, my eyes wide with curiosity as my grandmother began to gather the ingredients for the pastry. She explained each step in intricate detail, making sure I understood the importance of each measurement and technique. As we worked together to create the dough, I could feel the bond between us growing stronger with each fold and knead.

After the dough had risen and been shaped into a beautiful ring, my grandmother carefully placed it in the oven to bake. The sweet scent of cinnamon and sugar filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the timer finally dinged, we pulled the Swedish Tea Ring out of the oven and marveled at its golden-brown perfection.

As we sat down to enjoy a slice of the warm pastry, my grandmother shared more stories of her time in Sweden and the wonderful people she had met along the way. I listened intently, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from her and carry on these cherished recipes.

Over the years, I have made the Swedish Tea Ring countless times, each bite bringing back memories of that summer day in my grandmother's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on not only the ingredients and instructions but also the love and connection that comes with it.

I am forever grateful for the lessons my grandmother has taught me in the kitchen and beyond. Her recipes are not just a collection of ingredients and steps, but a treasure trove of memories and traditions that I will carry with me always. And every time I make a Swedish Tea Ring, I am reminded of the love and joy that food can bring to our lives.