Kleinur

Kleinur

Kleinur (KLAY-nur)

Icelandic Twisted Doughnuts

Prep Time 30 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
20
🔥 Calories 189 kcal

Lightly spiced, twisted Icelandic doughnuts fried to golden perfection. Cardamom-scented and less sweet than American doughnuts.

Nutrition & Info

190 kcal per serving
Protein 3.0g
Carbs 24.0g
Fat 9.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten ⚠ dairy ⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

deep fryer or heavy pot rolling pin sharp knife thermometer

Presentation Guide

Vessel: linen-lined basket

Garnishes: powdered sugar dusting

Accompaniments: coffee

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, cardamom, and baking soda in a bowl.

  2. 2

    Cut in softened butter, then add eggs and buttermilk. Mix to a soft dough.

  3. 3

    Roll dough to 5mm thickness on a floured surface. Cut into diamond shapes about 8cm long.

  4. 4

    Cut a small slit in the center of each diamond and pull one pointed end through the slit to create a twist.

  5. 5

    Heat oil to 180°C. Fry kleinur in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown.

  6. 6

    Drain on paper towels. Serve warm or at room temperature.

💡

Did You Know?

Icelanders consume more kleinur per capita than any other fried pastry in the Nordic countries, and every bakery has its own secret recipe.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • deep fryer or heavy pot
  • rolling pin
  • sharp knife
  • thermometer

Garnishing

powdered sugar dusting

Accompaniments

coffee

The Story Behind Kleinur

Kleinur arrived in Iceland via Danish influence during the colonial period and became thoroughly Icelandic over the centuries. The characteristic twist shape makes them easy to fry evenly. They remain a staple of Icelandic coffee culture and are found in every bakery. Unlike American doughnuts, they rely on cardamom rather than heavy sugar glazes for their appeal.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed coffee time, holidays 📜 Origins: Danish colonial period

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!