Norwegian Cinnamon Wreath (Klippekrans)

  • 1

Ingredients

  • FILLING:
  • 2 packages active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (105 to 115 degrees)
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 slightly beaten eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cardamom
  • 4 1/2 to 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup softened butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup raisins
  • GLAZE:
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Preparation

Step 1

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water; let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup sugar, the eggs, salt, cardamom and 4 1/2 cups flour until the dough is smooth. Cover and refrierate for 2 to 24 hours.

Sprinkle a surface lightly with some of the remaining flour. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and roll out to make a 20-inch square. Spread with a thin layer of softened butter right to the edge. Mix 1/2 cup of sugar and the cinnamon and sprinkle over the butter. Sprinkle the raisins over the cinnamon sugar. Roll up as for a jelly roll.

Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the roll on the sheet and pinch the ends together to make a ring. Let rise in a warm place until almost doubled. Mix the egg and milk to make a glaze and brush the ring with the mixture.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

With a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts spaced about 2 1/2 inches apart, about 1/2-inch into the risen loaf.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until just golden.