Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup candied orange peel
- 1/4 cup blanched almonds, chopped
- 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
Special Equipment Needed:
- Bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Add the milk, ground almonds, raisins, and candied orange peel and mix until combined.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thick.
9. Cut out circles with a cookie cutter and place on a baking sheet.
10. Sprinkle the tops of the buns with the chopped almonds and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Let cool and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 12 buns
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 220
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil
- Milk: can be substituted with almond milk or oat milk
- Ground almonds: can be substituted with ground walnuts or hazelnuts
- Raisins: can be substituted with dried cranberries or chopped dates
- Candied orange peel: can be substituted with chopped dried apricots or chopped dried figs
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom for a more traditional flavor
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder for a chocolate version
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped dark chocolate for a richer flavor
Tips and Tricks:
- For a lighter texture, use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour
- For a crunchier texture, add 1/4 cup of chopped hazelnuts or walnuts
- For a sweeter flavor, add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the buns on a platter with a dusting of confectioners' sugar and a few sprigs of fresh mint.
Garnishes:
- Fresh mint
- Powdered sugar
- Chopped nuts
- Dark chocolate shavings
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Yogurt
- Granola
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the buns are too dry, add a few tablespoons of milk to the dough.
- If the buns are too dense, add a few tablespoons of baking powder to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
- Refrigerate any leftovers.
Food History:
Semla buns are a traditional Swedish pastry that has been around for centuries. They were traditionally served on Shrove Tuesday, but are now enjoyed year-round.
Flavor Profiles:
The buns have a sweet, nutty flavor with hints of vanilla and orange.
Serving Suggestions:
Semla buns are best served warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
Related Categories
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Region: Swedish