Kranse-Kake
Kranse-Kake are traditional Norwegian almond rings with a delicate, nutty flavor. Crisp and sweet, they are perfect for festive occasions or as a charming treat with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Warm the almond paste in a double boiler and place it in a bowl with the slightly beaten egg whites. Beat with a mixer until well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture and beat until smooth.
- Let the mixture stand in a cool place overnight.
- Roll the mixture on a floured board into small finger-length strips and fit into molds.
- Grease the molds well and bake the rings at 325°F (160°C) for about 30 minutes.
- When baked, let the rings stand for 15 minutes, then unmold.
- For decorating, use powdered sugar, water, and almond flavoring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the almond paste is warmed adequately before mixing. If you don't have almond flavoring, a few drops of vanilla extract can be a good substitute. Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites as they can become too stiff. Using a scale to measure ingredients can ensure accuracy, particularly with the powdered sugar and almond paste.
Serving Suggestions
Kranse-Kake is traditionally served at celebrations and pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. You can decorate with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water for a glossy finish. Serve alongside a light salad like Gurkensalat (Cucumber Salad) to balance the sweetness or offer a variety of cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Kranse-Kake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer to enjoy them later, you can freeze the baked rings, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For serving, simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kranse-Kake contains roughly 239 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value).
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 marzipan instead of almond paste?
Yes, marzipan can be used as a substitute for almond paste, but it may result in a slightly sweeter flavor and different texture. Be sure to adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly, as marzipan typically contains added sugar.
What if my rings don't hold their shape when baking?
If the rings spread too much during baking, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not chilling the mixture long enough before forming. Make sure to let the mixture sit overnight and handle it gently when rolling it out.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
To make a nut-free version of Kranse-Kake, consider using sunflower seed paste as an alternative to almond paste. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be different, and you may need to adjust the sugar to taste.
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).