Strap on your baking apron and get ready for a delightful Christmas treat that will fill your home with the cozy aroma of freshly baked goods. Today, we’re diving into the world of Norwegian holiday baking with a recipe for the festive and charming Hjortetakk, also known as Antler Shaped Sweet Doughnuts. These whimsical pastries, shaped like delicate antlers, are a tradition in Norway during the holiday season and are perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a special treat for yourself.
Hjortetakk Antler Shaped Sweet Doughnuts
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup pearl sugar (for decoration)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and ground cardamom. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the milk until it reaches around 110°F (43°C). Remove from heat and sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
3. Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and then pour in the yeast-milk mixture. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
4. Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
7. Using a knife or pastry cutter, cut the dough into long strips about 1 inch wide. Take each strip and twist it gently to form a unique antler shape. Continue with the remaining dough.
8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (177°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
9. Remove the fried doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
10. While the doughnuts are still warm, brush them with beaten egg and sprinkle pearl sugar generously over the top to create a festive sparkle.
11. Let the doughnuts cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delightful Hjortetakk Antler Shaped Sweet Doughnuts with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite festive beverage.
Prepare to dazzle your friends and family with these delightful Norwegian delicacies that will surely become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. The unique antler shape and fragrant cardamom flavor make these sweet doughnuts a standout treat on any Christmas table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking magic begin. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
