Kringle

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Kringle

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Kringle is a traditional Scandinavian pastry, a Nordic variety of pretzel, which arrived with immigrants from Scandinavia to America, where it has become particularly popular in the Midwest. The name "kringle" is derived from the Old Norse word "kringla," meaning ring or circle. This pastry is known for its distinctive looped shape, with various fillings and toppings that vary by region and individual bakeries.

History

The origins of kringle can be traced back to the Viking Age, with the pastry's distinctive shape symbolizing eternity. It was originally a simple bread, but over time, as ingredients like sugar, butter, and eggs became more widely available, it evolved into the sweet, flaky pastry known today. In Scandinavia, particularly in Denmark and Norway, kringle is often associated with holidays and special occasions, reflecting its status as a treat rather than an everyday food.

Varieties

There are several regional varieties of kringle, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Danish Kringle: Perhaps the most well-known version outside of Scandinavia, Danish kringle is a filled pastry that comes in a variety of flavors, such as almond, raspberry, and custard. It is typically oval-shaped and has a light, flaky crust.

• Norwegian Kringle: In Norway, kringle is often shaped like a pretzel and can be either sweet, topped with sugar and cinnamon, or savory, filled with cheese or ham.

• Swedish Kringle: Swedish versions of kringle are similar to the Norwegian pretzel shape but are more commonly sweet, with sugar glaze and sometimes filled with marzipan.

• American Kringle: In the United States, particularly in areas with large Scandinavian populations like Wisconsin, kringle has been adapted into a variety of flavors and fillings, including pumpkin, apple, and cherry. The American kringle is typically larger and more suited to being served as a dessert or breakfast pastry.

Preparation

The preparation of kringle involves making a dough that is enriched with butter and eggs, which is then rolled out and filled with various ingredients. The dough is folded over the filling and shaped into a ring or pretzel shape before being baked. The pastry is often finished with a glaze or icing and sometimes sprinkled with nuts or sugar.

Cultural Significance

Kringle holds a special place in Scandinavian culture, symbolizing hospitality and celebration. It is commonly served during Christmas and other festive occasions, often accompanied by coffee or tea. In the United States, kringle has been embraced by communities with Scandinavian heritage and is celebrated as part of their cultural identity.

See Also

• Scandinavian cuisine
• Pretzel
• Pastry
• Danish cuisine
• Norwegian cuisine
• Swedish cuisine