Kleinur (Icelandic Twisted Pastries)

Ingredients

All-purpose flour

3 cups

Granulated sugar

1/4 cup

Baking powder

2 teaspoons

Salt

1/2 teaspoon

Unsalted butter

1/4 cup, melted

Milk

1/2 cup

Egg

1, beaten

Vanilla extract

1 teaspoon

Vegetable oil

for frying

Powdered sugar

for dusting

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Add the melted butter, beaten egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
4. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to shape.
5. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the kleinur.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
7. Cut the rolled dough into strips, approximately 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. Make a small slit in the center of each strip, then pull one end through the slit to create a twisted shape.
8. Carefully place the twisted kleinur into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
9. Using a slotted spoon, remove the kleinur from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
10. Dust the warm kleinur generously with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste!