Swedish Tea Rings are a delightful and aromatic sweet treat with a rich history that spans generations. Originating in Scandinavian countries, these beautifully twisted and filled pastries have become a beloved tradition, especially during festive occasions and gatherings. With a tender dough, a luscious filling, and a delightful browned butter glaze, Swedish Tea Rings are sure to captivate your taste buds and warm your heart.

Swedish Tea Rings, also known as “Kanelbulle” or cinnamon rolls, have a long and cherished history in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries. The origin of these delightful pastries can be traced back to the 1920s when they first gained popularity in Sweden.

In Sweden, Kanelbulle is so deeply rooted in the culture that it has its own national holiday. October 4th is officially celebrated as “Kanelbullens Dag” or Cinnamon Roll Day, where people across the country enjoy these delicious pastries to honor their heritage and indulge in the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar.

Over time, the popularity of Swedish Tea Rings has spread beyond Scandinavia, with people all over the world embracing these delectable treats. The recipe has also evolved, incorporating various fillings, such as pecans, almonds, or raisins, to create delightful variations.

Today, Swedish Tea Rings continue to be a beloved part of Scandinavian baking traditions, passed down through families and shared during festive celebrations, coffee breaks, or afternoon tea gatherings.

PREP: 25 MIN. + CHILLING

BAKE: 20 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 2 PASTRY RINGS (12-16 SERVINGS EACH)

INGREDIENTS

FOR DOUGH:

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon sugar, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold butter
• 1 package (¼ ounce) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup warm water (110° to 115°)
• ¼ cup warm evaporated milk (110° to 115°)
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup dried currants or raisins

FOR FILLING:

• ¼ cup butter, softened
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup chopped pecans

FOR BROWNED BUTTER GLAZE:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 to 4 teaspoons evaporated milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. In another large bowl, dissolve the yeast and the remaining sugar in warm water. Add the warm evaporated milk, egg, and the crumb mixture; beat until well blended. Stir in the dried currants or raisins. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough overnight.
2. Line two baking sheets with foil and grease the foil; set them aside. For the filling, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, then stir in the chopped pecans.
3. Punch down the refrigerated dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface; divide it into two halves. Roll each portion into a 14×7-inch rectangle; then spread the filling to within ½ inch of the edges. Roll up each rectangle jelly-roll style, starting with a long side, and pinch the seams to seal.
4. Place the two dough rolls seam side down on the prepared baking sheets and pinch the ends together to form rings. With scissors, cut from the outside edge two-thirds of the way toward the center of each ring at 1-inch intervals. Slightly separate the strips and twist them to allow the filling to show. Cover the rings and let them rise in a warm place until doubled in size, which should take about 45 minutes.
5. Bake the Swedish Tea Rings at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove the rings from the pans and let them cool on wire racks.
6. For the browned butter glaze, cook the butter over medium heat in a small saucepan until lightly browned, stirring constantly. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and enough evaporated milk to achieve the desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the pastry rings.

Enjoy the delightful Swedish Tea Rings as a symbol of Scandinavian baking traditions and indulge in the warm flavors of cinnamon, browned butter, and pecans! These beautifully twisted and filled pastries are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee or as a sweet treat during special occasions.