When the holiday season rolls around in Denmark, the air is filled with the delightful aromas of traditional Christmas baking. One such beloved treat that graces many Danish tables during this festive time is the Smørkranse, also known as Butter Rings. These delicate and buttery delights are a classic Danish Christmas cookie, loved for their rich flavor and charming ring shape. Let’s dive into this Danish Christmas baking tradition and learn how to make these delectable Smørkranse Butter Rings at home.
**Smørkranse Butter Rings**
**Ingredients:**
– 250g unsalted butter, softened
– 150g granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 375g all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
– Sliced almonds for decorating
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until well combined.
2. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the sifted flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as the dough should be crumbly yet cohesive.
3. **Chill the Dough**: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up and become easier to work with.
4. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. **Form the Butter Rings**: Once the dough has chilled, take small portions at a time and roll them into ropes about 1 cm thick. Shape each rope into a ring, connecting the ends to form a circle. Place the rings on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
6. **Decorate with Almonds**: Press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each butter ring, gently embedding them into the dough for decoration and a nutty crunch.
7. **Bake the Smørkranse**: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.
8. **Cool and Dust**: Once baked, remove the Smørkranse Butter Rings from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar just before serving for a festive touch.
Enjoy these delightful Smørkranse Butter Rings with a cup of hot cocoa or gløgg (Danish mulled wine) for a cozy and heartwarming Christmas treat. These buttery and delicate cookies are sure to bring a taste of Danish holiday cheer to your home this season. Happy baking!
