Smultringer, also known as Norwegian doughnuts, are a popular dessert in Norway. Traditionally, they are made with buttermilk and sour cream, but in this recipe, we will be using a combination of kulturmelk (cultured milk) and fløte (cream) to give them a rich and creamy flavor.
Ingredients
For the doughnuts:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup kulturmelk (cultured milk)
- 1/2 cup fløte (cream)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the kulturmelk, fløte, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. On a floured surface, knead the dough for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/2 inch thickness and use a doughnut cutter or cookie cutter to cut out the doughnuts.
6. Heat the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F.
7. Fry the doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove the doughnuts from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to cool.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
10. Dip each doughnut in the glaze and place it back on the wire rack to set.
Variations
There are many variations of smultringer, depending on the region of Norway and personal preference. Here are a few ideas:
- Add cardamom or cinnamon to the dough for a spicy flavor.
- Make a chocolate glaze by adding cocoa powder to the powdered sugar and milk.
- Fill the doughnuts with jam, custard, or Nutella.
- Sprinkle the doughnuts with powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or chopped nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Smultringer are best served warm and fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. They are delicious on their own or served with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. For a festive touch, sprinkle them with red and green sugar for Christmas or orange and black sugar for Halloween.
Conclusion
Smultringer are a classic Norwegian treat that are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With the addition of kulturmelk and fløte, they are even more decadent and delicious. Try this recipe for your next brunch, dessert, or holiday gathering and enjoy the sweet taste of Norway!
