Skandinavians
Scandinavian sweet rolls with a tender crumb, filled with brown sugar and walnuts, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften yeast in warm water.
- Heat buttermilk to boiling.
- Add 4 tablespoons of butter, sugar, and salt to the hot buttermilk.
- Stir to melt the butter and cool to lukewarm.
- Add flour gradually to make a soft dough.
- Knead on a floured board, adding more flour if needed to prevent sticking.
- Invert a bowl over the dough and let it stand for 15 minutes.
- Punch down the dough and roll out to a 12 x 20-inch rectangle.
- Melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter and brush it over the surface.
- Sprinkle over half of the dough 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup walnuts.
- Fold the other half over and press the edges together.
- Cut the rolled dough into about 22 strips, each 3/4-inch wide.
- Twist each strip and form into a ring.
- Place the rings on a greased baking sheet and let rise for about 45 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cardamom to the dough. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. To save time, you can also use pre-made pastry dough instead of making it from scratch. Make sure your yeast is fresh for proper rising.
Serving Suggestions
These Skandinavian rings are delightful served warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese. For a festive touch, pair them with Christmas Cheese Logs or serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread or holiday gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skandinavians contains roughly 88 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 790mg per serving (34% 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 freeze the Skandinavian rings?
Yes, you can freeze the baked rings. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or prefer a different nut, you can substitute them with chopped pecans or almonds. Alternatively, for a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or simply omit the nuts altogether.
How can I ensure my dough rises properly?
To ensure proper rising, make sure your yeast is activated in warm water (not hot) and that the buttermilk mixture cools to lukewarm before combining. Additionally, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area while it rises for the best results.
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).