Scandinavian-American Kringla

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (105-115°F / 41-46°C)
• 4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
• 1 tsp salt
• 3-4 cups (360-480g) all-purpose flour
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp water for egg wash
• Coarse sugar or pearl sugar for sprinkling
• Almond paste filling:
  • 1/2 cup (120g) almond paste
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• Cream cheese filling:
  • 1/2 cup (120g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60g) powdered sugar

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes, plus rising time

Cooking Time:

• 25-30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until foamy.
2. Add the eggs, butter, sour cream, salt, and half of the flour. Stir until well combined.
3. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. While the dough is rising, prepare the almond paste and cream cheese fillings. In a food processor, combine the almond paste, milk, and sugar until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until blended.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll out one half into a 12x16 inch (30x40cm) rectangle.
9. Spread the almond paste filling over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
10. Roll out the remaining dough into another 12x16 inch (30x40cm) rectangle. Place it over the almond paste filling and press down to seal the edges.
11. Transfer the kringla to a baking sheet and brush with egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse sugar or pearl sugar.
12. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

Dish Characteristics:

• Flaky, buttery crust
• Sweet and nutty almond paste filling
• Creamy and tangy cream cheese filling
• Festive presentation with coarse sugar topping

User Comments:

• "This kringla is absolutely delicious! The crust is so flaky and the fillings are perfect."
• "I love the combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish."
• "This is a beautiful and impressive dessert that is sure to impress your guests."
• "I've never had kringla before, but this one was amazing! I can't wait to try it again."
• "This is a bit challenging to make, but it's worth the effort. The end result is a stunning and delicious dessert."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure the milk is warm but not too hot, as this can kill the yeast.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
• If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time.
• Be sure to let the dough rise in a warm place, as this will help it to double in size quickly.
• Do not overbake the kringla, as this will make it dry.