Teresa's Recipes
Kleinur (Icelandic Twisted Pastries)
Kleinur are delightful traditional Icelandic pastries that are deep-fried to golden perfection. They boast a tender, slightly sweet dough enriched with butter and vanilla, making them a beloved treat often enjoyed with coffee. With their beautifully twisted shapes and light dusting of powdered sugar, these pastries are not just a dessert; they are a warm slice of Icelandic culture, perfect for sharing on cozy afternoons or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 cup, melted Unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1, beaten Egg
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- for frying Vegetable oil
- for dusting Powdered sugar
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 12
- Dish Type: Dessert
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 26g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the melted butter, beaten egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
- 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.
- 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.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- 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.
- 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.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the kleinur from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Dust the warm kleinur generously with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste!
Tips
- For a twist, try adding spices such as cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for added flavor.
- Serve kleinur with a side of jam or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.