Berliner Kranser Or Wreaths

Prep: 30 min

Delightful wreath-shaped cookies with rich butter, almond, and lemon flavors, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. butter, softened
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 5 eggs
  • 4 1/2 c. flour
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 3 Tbsp. sweet cream
  • 3 Tbsp. lemon
  • 3 Tbsp. almond extract

Instructions

  1. Beat the egg yolks thoroughly.
  2. Gradually add the sugar and sweet cream, then beat until stiff.
  3. Stir in part of the flour.
  4. Place enough dough on a breadboard and spread with softened butter.
  5. Fold the batter and then spread with more butter.
  6. Continue the process until all butter and flour are used up.
  7. After each addition, pound the mixture with a rolling pin until thoroughly mixed.
  8. Set the dough in a cool place until chilled.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve the perfect texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. If you're short on almond extract, you can substitute with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. For a richer taste, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Remember to chill the dough thoroughly; this helps maintain its shape while baking.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful wreaths can be served as a festive treat during the holidays or any special occasion. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside a light dessert like English Summer Pudding for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy them as part of a dessert platter with other sweets.

Storage & Reheating

Store the Berliner Kranser in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Berliner Kranser Or Wreaths contains roughly 440 calories, with 6g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

440 kcal 22% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.1g 12% DV
Total Fat 15.5g 20% DV
Carbs 73g 27% DV
Fiber 2.8g 10% DV
Sugar 0.3g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 659.1mg 29% DV
Potassium 584.4mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 195mg 65% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 39.4mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 22.8mg 25% DV
Calcium 429.2mg 33% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can use margarine, the flavor and texture may differ. Butter provides richness and a better result in pastries. If you're looking for a lower-cost option, consider using Low Cost Sweetened Condensed Milk in your recipe to enhance sweetness and moisture.

How can I make these wreaths more festive?

To add a festive touch, consider drizzling them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice after baking. You can also sprinkle colorful edible decorations or nuts on top for added visual appeal. Pairing them with a holiday punch can also enhance the festive feel.

What can I do if the dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually incorporate more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it's manageable. Be cautious not to overwork the dough, as this can make the wreaths tough. If you find it easier, chill the dough longer before shaping to help it firm up.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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