Sugar Plum Kringles are delicious pastries filled with plum jam, orange peel, and nuts. These flaky treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The combination of flavors creates a delightful sweet and tangy taste that is sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe yields a batch of four kringles.

The origin of Sugar Plum Kringles can be traced back to traditional European pastries. Kringles are popular in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisines, where they are often enjoyed during festive occasions and holidays. The name “kringle” is believed to come from the old Norse word “krikill,” meaning a ring or twisted shape.

Over time, different variations of kringles have emerged, incorporating various fillings and flavors. The Sugar Plum Kringle variation combines the rich sweetness of plum jam with the refreshing zest of orange peel and the crunch of walnuts or pecans. The result is a delectable pastry that captures the essence of the holiday season.

PREP: 1 HOUR + CHILLING

BAKE: 20 MIN.

MAKES: 4 PASTRIES (6 SLICES EACH)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold butter
• 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
• ¾ cup plum jam, divided
• 4 teaspoons grated orange peel
• 8 teaspoons finely chopped walnuts or pecans, divided
• 1¼ cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons 2% milk
• 4 teaspoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place the flour in a large bowl.
2. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
3. Stir in the sour cream until well combined.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 1½ hours or until it becomes easy to handle.
5. Divide the chilled dough into four equal portions.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion into a 12×6-inch rectangle. Keep the remaining dough refrigerated.
7. Spread 3 tablespoons of plum jam lengthwise down the center of the rectangle.
8. Fold in the sides of the pastry to meet in the center, pinching the seam to seal.
9. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon each of grated orange peel and chopped nuts over the jam.
10. Repeat the process for the remaining three portions of dough.
11. Place the shaped kringles on two ungreased baking sheets.
12. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
13. Bake the kringles for 18-22 minutes or until they are lightly browned.
14. In a small bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar and milk to make a glaze.
15. Drizzle the glaze over the warm pastries.
16. In another bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and remaining chopped nuts.
17. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the warm pastries.
18. Serve the Sugar Plum Kringles warm and enjoy their delightful flavors.

TIPS:

• Chilling the Dough: It is important to refrigerate the dough for 1 to 1½ hours before shaping the kringles. Chilled dough is easier to work with and results in flakier pastries. Ensure that the dough is well-wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out in the refrigerator.
• Customize the Fillings: While the recipe suggests using plum jam, grated orange peel, and chopped walnuts or pecans, feel free to experiment with different fillings according to your taste preferences. You can substitute the plum jam with other fruit preserves, such as raspberry or apricot. Additionally, you can add a touch of cinnamon or even sprinkle some chocolate chips for a twist. Get creative and personalize the fillings to make the Sugar Plum Kringles truly your own.

NOTE:

• The kringles can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.