Swedish Coffee Bread (Tea Ring) Recipe

Experience the classic sweetness and warmth of Swedish tradition in your own kitchen with this Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring recipe. This delightful bread, known as Vetekrans in Sweden, is a festive treat often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. It's a rich, aromatic bread with a hint of cardamom, filled with sweetness from brown sugar, cinnamon, golden raisins, and almond paste, then shaped into a beautiful ring that brings a touch of elegance to your table.

Photos of Swedish Coffee Bread (Tea Ring) Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common and should be easy to find in a well-stocked grocery store. However, a few items might be a bit more unusual. One such ingredient is ground cardamom, a warm, aromatic spice that's often used in Scandinavian baking. Another is almond paste, a blend of ground almonds and sugar, commonly used in pastries for its rich almond flavor. If you can't find these in your local supermarket's spice and baking aisles, try checking in a store that specializes in international foods.

Ingredients for Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Whole milk: A dairy product used as a liquid base for the dough. It helps to create a tender, moist crumb in the finished bread.

White sugar: Used to sweeten the dough and also aids in the browning of the crust.

Butter: Adds richness and flavor, while also keeping the bread moist and tender.

Active yeast: Responsible for making the dough rise and making it light and fluffy.

All-purpose flour: The main structure for your bread, it forms the dough when combined with wet ingredients.

Egg: Acts as a binder and provides moisture and richness to the dough.

Salt: Enhances flavor and helps with the gluten structure in the dough.

Ground cardamom: Adds a unique, warm, and aromatic flavor to the bread.

Brown sugar: Used in the filling for a rich, molasses-like sweetness.

Cinnamon: A spice used in the filling for its warm and comforting flavor.

Golden raisins: Adds a sweet and fruity element to the filling.

Slivered almonds: Provides a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the filling.

Almond paste: Used in the filling for a rich, almond flavor.

Egg yolks: Used in the glaze to give the baked bread a shiny, golden finish.

Cream: Used in the glaze to enrich the color and flavor.

Powdered sugar: Used in the sugar glaze to add a sweet, decorative finish to the bread.

One reader, Coletta Guy says:

This Swedish coffee bread tea ring recipe is a game-changer! The aroma of cardamom and cinnamon filled my kitchen, and the golden raisins and slivered almonds added a delightful crunch. The bread was soft and fluffy, and the glaze gave it a perfect touch of sweetness. Absolutely divine!

Coletta Guy

Key Techniques for Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring Recipe

How to make the dough: This involves heating the milk, butter, and sugar, then mixing in the yeast, egg, salt, and cardamom. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms, then knead until smooth.

How to let the dough rise: After kneading, place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise until doubled in size.

How to make the wreath form: Divide the dough, spread it into a rectangle, brush with butter, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, add fillings, roll it up, and form it into a circle on a baking sheet.

How to cut the dough for the wreath: Cut the dough circle with scissors, pull out the dough segments, and shape it into a wreath.

How to bake: Preheat the oven, brush the dough with egg yolk and cream, then bake for 25-30 minutes. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.

How to make the sugar glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and water to create a glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more water or powdered sugar as needed.

How To Make Swedish Coffee Bread (Tea Ring)

In Sweden, this coffee bread is a traditional Christmas ring or wreath-shaped pastry. It has cardamom, a cinnamon filling, and a sweet sugar glaze.

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Rise Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Total: 2 hours 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Bread:

1cupwhole milk
½cupwhite sugar
½cupbutter
2pkgactive yeast,(dissolved in ¼ cup warm water)
4cupsall purpose flour
1largeegg
½tspsalt
1tspground cardamom

For Filling:

2tbspbutter,melted
¼cupbrown sugar,packed
1tbspwhite sugar
2tspcinnamon
1cupgolden raisins,optional
½cupslivered almonds,optional
¼cupalmond paste,optional

For Egg Glaze:

2egg yolks
2tbspcream

For Sugar Glaze:

1cuppowdered sugar
1tbspwater

Instructions

Dough:

Put milk into a small saucepan and heat on medium heat until steamy (but not boiling). Remove from heat. Stir in the butter and sugar until the butter has melted and the sugar dissolved. Pour into a mixing bowl. Mix in yeast mixture and egg.
Mix in salt and cardamom. Slowly add in 2 cups of the flour. After the first two cups of flour gradually add more flour until a soft dough starts to form a ball and pull away from the sides of the bowl.
Turn out onto a floured surface and knead dough for 7 to 10 minutes until smooth, OR use a dough hook in a stand-up mixer and knead the dough that way for 7 to 10 minutes, adding more flour as needed to keep the dough from being too sticky. Note that the dough should remain soft, so take care not to add too much flour.
Place the dough in an oiled bowl, covered with a clean tea-towel or with plastic wrap. Let rise for an hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
Press the dough down to deflate it a bit. Divide the dough into 2 equal parts. Take one part (saving the other for wreath number 2) and use fingers to spread it into a 8-inch by 16-inch rectangle on a lightly floured, clean, flat surface.
Brush the dough with melted butter, leaving at least a half inch border on the edges so the dough will stick together when rolled. Mix together the brown and white sugar and the cinnamon and sprinkle the dough with half of the mixture (saving the other half for the second batch of dough).
Sprinkle on more fillings, as desired, such as raisins, slivered almonds, or almond paste.
Carefully roll the dough up lengthwise, with the seam on the bottom. Carefully transfer to a greased baking sheet. Form a circle with the dough on the baking sheet, connecting the ends together.
Using scissors, cut most of the way through the dough, cutting on a slant. Work your way around the dough circle. After each cut, pull out the dough segment either to the right or to the left, alternating as around the circle. The dough circle will look like a wreath when this is finished.
Repeat previous steps with the rest of the dough to form a second wreath.
Cover lightly with plastic wrap and set in a warm area for a second rise. Let rise for about 40 minutes to an hour; the dough should again puff up in size.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Whisk together the egg yolks and cream. Use a pastry brush to brush over the dough.
Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. After the first 15 minutes of baking, if the top is getting well browned, tent with some aluminum foil.
Remove from oven and let cool completely. Whisk together powdered sugar and water to create a final glaze (optional).
Add more water if the glaze is too thick to drizzle, add more powdered sugar if the glaze is too runny. Drizzle the glaze in a back and forth motion over the pastry.

Nutrition

Calories: 2775.73kcal
Fat: 99.99g
Saturated Fat: 46.89g
Trans Fat: 2.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 35.43g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.77g
Carbohydrates: 426.29g
Fiber: 25.73g
Sugar: 194.30g
Protein: 61.37g
Cholesterol: 424.41mg
Sodium: 731.76mg
Calcium: 450.84mg
Potassium: 1726.60mg
Iron: 16.55mg
Vitamin A: 694.77µg
Vitamin C: 2.86mg

Mastering the Art of Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

When rolling the dough into a rectangle for the wreath form, if you find it difficult to maintain the shape, allow the dough to rest for a few minutes before attempting again. Much like pizza dough, it needs time to relax. This will make it more pliable and easier to shape. Additionally, when adding the filling, ensure to leave a half-inch border on the edges. This will help the dough stick together when rolled, preventing the filling from spilling out during the baking process.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Prepare the filling: Prepare the filling in advance to save time. You can mix the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, raisins, slivered almonds, and almond paste ahead of time and store it in an airtight container until ready to use.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough. This will save time and effort compared to kneading by hand, allowing you to multitask while the dough is being prepared.

Chop ingredients in advance: Chop and measure all the ingredients beforehand to streamline the process. This includes measuring out the flour, butter, and other components, as well as chopping the almonds and raisins.

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven while the dough is rising to minimize waiting time. This ensures that the oven is ready as soon as the dough is prepared for baking.

Plan ahead: Plan the timing of the recipe to fit your schedule. For instance, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before, allowing for a quicker assembly and baking process the next day.

Substitute Ingredients For Swedish Coffee Bread (Tea Ring) Recipe

whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a slightly nutty flavor to the bread.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative with a similar sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option, providing a similar richness and flavor to the bread.
active yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used as a quicker alternative, requiring less proofing time.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, adding a nutty flavor and more nutrients to the bread.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg can be used as a vegan alternative, providing binding properties similar to a regular egg.
ground cardamom - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used for a different flavor profile, adding warmth and sweetness to the bread.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a liquid sweetener, providing a unique flavor and moisture to the filling.
golden raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used for a tart and sweet alternative to golden raisins in the filling.
slivered almonds - Substitute with chopped pecans: Chopped pecans can be used for a different nutty flavor and texture in the filling.
almond paste - Substitute with hazelnut spread: Hazelnut spread can be used for a different nutty flavor and sweetness in the filling.
egg yolks - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used as a glaze alternative, providing a glossy finish to the bread.
powdered sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener for the glaze, adding a different flavor and texture.

Presenting Your Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Elevate the dough preparation: Begin by meticulously preparing the dough, ensuring that it is soft, smooth, and perfectly risen to create a light and airy texture in the final tea ring.
Craft a stunning wreath shape: Take the time to carefully shape the dough into a beautiful wreath, ensuring that each twist and turn is expertly crafted to create an eye-catching and visually appealing presentation.
Incorporate a decadent filling: Introduce a luscious filling, consisting of a delightful combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, golden raisins, slivered almonds, and almond paste, to infuse the tea ring with rich, indulgent flavors.
Perfect the glaze: Create a flawless egg glaze to give the tea ring a glossy, golden finish, and then drizzle a luscious sugar glaze over the top, adding a touch of sweetness and elegance to the presentation.
Showcase precision in cutting and arranging: With precision and care, cut the dough and arrange it into a stunning wreath shape, ensuring that each segment is beautifully displayed to create an exquisite final presentation.

Essential Tools for Making a Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and a lid, used for heating liquids and making sauces.
Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles, used for applying glazes or egg wash to pastries and breads.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
Scissors: A cutting instrument used for trimming dough and making decorative cuts in pastries.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil with wire loops used for whipping, beating, and blending ingredients.
Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles, used for applying glazes or egg wash to pastries and breads.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting foods by surrounding them with dry heat.

Storing and Freezing Your Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Let the swedish coffee bread tea ring cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store at room temperature, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the bread:
- Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
To thaw frozen swedish coffee bread tea ring:
- Remove the bread from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Alternatively, thaw the bread at room temperature for 2-3 hours.
To reheat thawed or room temperature bread:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wrap the bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen swedish coffee bread tea ring to maintain its texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Here are the best methods for reheating leftover Swedish coffee bread tea ring:

Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the coffee bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet and reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through. This method helps to restore the bread's crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and moist.
Microwave method: If you're short on time, you can reheat individual slices of Swedish coffee bread in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. If the bread isn't warm enough, heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Keep in mind that microwaving may cause the bread to become slightly soggy.
Toaster oven method: Cut the coffee bread into individual slices and place them in a toaster oven. Heat the slices at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until they're crispy on the outside and warm on the inside. This method is perfect for those who prefer a crispy texture.
Stovetop method: For a quick and easy reheating option, place a slice of Swedish coffee bread in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Heat the bread for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's warmed through and slightly crispy. This method works well for individual slices and helps to restore the bread's texture.

Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to consume the reheated Swedish coffee bread promptly for the best flavor and texture. If you have any leftover glaze or toppings, you can drizzle them over the warm bread for an extra burst of flavor.

Fascinating Facts About Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Swedish coffee bread tea ring is a traditional Swedish pastry often enjoyed during fika, a Swedish coffee break. It is typically filled with warm spices such as cardamom and cinnamon, and often includes raisins and almonds. This pastry is a popular treat during the holiday season in Sweden and is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Is Making Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring at Home Cost-Effective?

This Swedish coffee bread tea ring recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as flour, sugar, butter, yeast, raisins, almonds, and eggs, are commonly found in most kitchens. However, the inclusion of cardamom and almond paste may require an additional purchase. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the delightful flavors, versatility, and the joy it brings to the table.

Is Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Swedish coffee bread tea ring recipe is a delightful treat, but it's not the healthiest option due to its high sugar and fat content. The recipe calls for significant amounts of white sugar, brown sugar, and butter, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly. Additionally, the use of all-purpose flour means the bread lacks the beneficial fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the dough and filling, or replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Use a lower-fat alternative to butter, such as Greek yogurt or applesauce, to reduce the overall fat content
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients into the filling, such as dried fruits (e.g., cranberries or apricots) and nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
Opt for a lighter glaze or omit it altogether to further reduce the sugar content

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the Swedish coffee bread tea ring while still enjoying its delightful flavors and textures.

Editor's Take on This Classic Swedish Recipe

This Swedish coffee bread tea ring recipe is a delightful and aromatic treat. The combination of cardamom, cinnamon, and almond paste creates a rich and complex flavor profile, while the golden raisins and slivered almonds add a delightful texture. The dough is beautifully soft and tender, and the braided wreath shape makes for an impressive presentation. The final touch of the sugar glaze adds a perfect hint of sweetness. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to any brunch or afternoon tea.

Enhance Your Swedish Coffee Bread (Tea Ring) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Root Vegetables: Try a medley of roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and turnips, seasoned with herbs and olive oil for a hearty and flavorful side dish.

Grilled Pineapple: Grill slices of pineapple for a sweet and tangy accompaniment to the Swedish coffee bread tea ring. The caramelized flavor of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the cardamom in the bread.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in a creamy and rich mushroom risotto as a side dish to complement the sweetness of the tea ring. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms will balance the sweetness of the bread.

Delicious Alternatives to Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Swedish Meatballs: These savory meatballs are perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Serve them with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal.

Apple Crisp: This classic dessert is a great way to use up fresh apples. The combination of sweet, tender apples and a crispy oat topping is sure to be a hit with your family.

Vegetable Stir-Fry: Whip up a quick and healthy stir-fry using your favorite vegetables and a flavorful sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in a creamy and decadent pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich Alfredo sauce. It's a restaurant-quality meal that you can make at home.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Swedish Coffee Bread Tea Ring

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal or gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy, rich pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please any pasta lover.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the vibrant and bold flavors of a beef stir fry, packed with tender slices of beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. This dish is a quick and easy option for a flavorful and nutritious dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Why trust this Swedish Coffee Bread (Tea Ring) Recipe:

This recipe is a tried and tested classic, passed down through generations. The combination of cardamom, raisins, and almond paste creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can achieve a beautiful and delicious Swedish coffee bread tea ring. Trust in the expertise and passion that has gone into perfecting this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Want to share your experience baking Swedish Coffee Bread (Tea Ring) or discuss the recipe further? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

Can I substitute almond paste with something else?

Yes, if you don't have almond paste, you can use marzipan as a substitute. Alternatively, you can also use a mixture of ground almonds, sugar, and a small amount of almond extract to mimic the flavor and texture of almond paste.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. After the first rise, punch down the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let the dough come to room temperature and proceed with shaping and baking.

Can I omit the raisins and almonds from the filling?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different filling or want to omit the raisins and almonds, feel free to customize the filling to your liking. You can use chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips as alternative fillings.

Can I freeze the Swedish coffee bread tea ring?

Yes, you can freeze the baked Swedish coffee bread tea ring. Once it has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the rising time as instant yeast tends to work more quickly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate substitution ratio.