During the festive season in Norway, the delightful aroma of freshly baked Kanelsnurrer fills homes with warmth and cheer. These delicious Cinnamon Swirls are a traditional Christmas treat that brings joy to so many families. The flaky, buttery dough infused with the sweet and spicy mixture of cinnamon and sugar creates a perfect combination that is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee on a cold winter morning or served to guests during holiday gatherings, Kanelsnurrer is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
**Kanelsnurrer Cinnamon Swirls**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
– ½ cup warm milk
– 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 large egg
**For the Filling:**
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cardamom, and salt.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the yeast mixture and the beaten egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 7-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
**For the Filling:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well mixed.
2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
3. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts, if desired, over the cinnamon sugar mixture.
5. Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
6. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
**Assembly:**
1. Place the sliced dough pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece for rising.
2. Cover the baking sheet with a clean kitchen towel and let the Kanelsnurrer rise for another 30 minutes.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Allow the Cinnamon Swirls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of Kanelsnurrer with loved ones or as a delightful treat for yourself.
Experience the magic of the holiday season with these delectable Kanelsnurrer Cinnamon Swirls that are sure to become a beloved go-to recipe for Christmas baking. Share the joy of homemade treats with family and friends and create lasting memories as you savor each delightful bite of these festive pastries. Happy baking!
