Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (1/2 cup sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons cinnamon)
Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot for frying
- Candy thermometer
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth.
6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
7. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
8. Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
9. Flatten each ball with your palm and cut a small slit in the center.
10. Fry the Kleina in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
11. Remove the Kleina from the oil with a slotted spoon or spider strainer and drain on paper towels.
12. While still warm, roll the Kleina in cinnamon sugar until coated.
13. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2-3 minutes per batch
5. Temperature:
Oil temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
Makes about 20 Kleina
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 130
Total fat: 4g
Saturated fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 110mg
Total carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour.
- Margarine or shortening can be substituted for butter.
- Almond or soy milk can be substituted for regular milk.
- Brown sugar can be substituted for white sugar.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom to the dough for a spiced flavor.
- Dip the Kleina in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Add raisins or chopped nuts to the dough for texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying to ensure even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pot when frying to prevent the Kleina from sticking together.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
Storage instructions:
Store the Kleina in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the Kleina in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the Kleina on a platter and sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet snack.
Suggested side dishes:
Kleina can be served as a standalone snack or dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the Kleina are too dense, make sure not to overwork the dough.
- If the Kleina are too oily, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature and that the Kleina are drained properly.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and prevent the oil from overheating.
Food history:
Kleina is a traditional Icelandic pastry that is often served during the Christmas season.
Flavor profiles:
Kleina is a sweet and crunchy pastry with a hint of cinnamon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve Kleina as a sweet snack or dessert.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Latvian
Taste: Sweet, Cinnamon, Crispy, Cinnamon-Spiced