Danish Klejners
Danish Klejners are crispy, twisted pastries with a hint of lemon, coated in powdered sugar—perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful treat with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together sugar, eggs, and oleo.
- Mix in the cream.
- Add lemon peel and flour.
- Knead the dough together.
- Roll out very thin.
- Cut into 1 x 2 1/2-inch strips.
- Cut a 1-inch strip in the center of each strip.
- Pull one end through the center to form a twisted shape.
- Fry in hot fat until golden brown.
- Roll in powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of oleo or Crisco. Ensure that your dough is rolled out evenly to achieve uniform cooking. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. For added zest, experiment with lime or orange peel instead of lemon.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful Danish Klejners are perfect for serving with coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings. They can also be enjoyed as a festive treat during holidays. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Strawberry Spread for dipping, or pair with a light dessert like Chilled Raspberry Soup for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Klejners in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid refrigerating them. If you want to reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Danish Klejners contains roughly 72 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to fry, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
What type of oil is best for frying?
For frying Klejners, a neutral oil with a high smoke point is ideal. Canola oil or vegetable oil works well. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and may impart a strong flavor to the cookies.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives Klejners their traditional texture and flavor, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F, place the cut strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown, turning halfway through.
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).