"kaffee Krantz" (coffee Wreath) Recipe

Kaffee Krantz, also known as Coffee Wreath, is a delicious and classic pastry that originated in Germany. This sweet treat is perfect for coffee or tea time, and its unique wreath shape makes it an attractive centerpiece for any dessert table. With a rich and buttery dough, the Kaffee Krantz is filled with the flavors of coffee and topped with a sweet and crunchy sugar glaze. Let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delightful pastry.

Before we get into the details of the recipe, let's explore the history and fun facts about Kaffee Krantz. This traditional German pastry has been enjoyed for many years, passed down through generations. It is believed to have originated in different regions of Germany, with various local adaptations. The wreath shape symbolizes unity and togetherness, making it a popular choice for holidays and special occasions.

Now, let's begin with the recipe for Kaffee Krantz. To make this delicious pastry, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup butter and lard (room temperature)
- 4 eggs
- 1 pint milk
- 1 Fleischman's yeast cake
- 4 cups flour

To start, cream together the sugar, butter, lard, and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Make sure the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is creamy. In a separate saucepan, scald the milk and allow it to cool before adding it to the mixture.

Next, dissolve the Fleischman's yeast cake in half a cup of lukewarm water. Once the yeast is dissolved, add it to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Give it a good stir to ensure the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Now it's time to let the dough rise. Place the bowl in a warm spot, preferably near the range, and let it rise for about 1-1/2 hours. Keep an eye on it and wait until the dough has doubled in size. This rising time is crucial for the development of the flavor and texture of the pastry.

Once the dough has risen, add about 3 cups more of flour to the mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until the dough becomes stiff and can be stirred with a spoon. At this point, the dough should be just right in texture.

Now, take about 2 cups of the dough and place it on a well-floured bake-board. Divide it into three equal pieces and braid them together to form a wreath shape. Alternatively, you can also make individual flat cakes by forming the dough into small circles and placing them in pie tins.

If you want to add an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, consider sprinkling crushed rock candy liberally over the top of the wreath. Stick blanched almonds a couple of inches apart over the top of the dough. This will create a beautiful pattern and give the Kaffee Krantz an additional crunch.

Before baking, brush the dough with a mixture of milk and sugar. This will give the pastry a lovely glaze once it's baked. Finally, sprinkle sugar on top of the wreath to add a bit of extra sweetness.

Now, it's time to bake the Kaffee Krantz. Preheat your oven to a moderately hot temperature and place the wreath in the oven. Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking.

Once the Kaffee Krantz is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This pastry is best enjoyed when it's still warm, and the flavors are at their peak.

Now that you've mastered the art of making Kaffee Krantz, let's explore similar recipe dishes you may enjoy. If you're a fan of German pastries, you may also want to try making Streuselkuchen, which is a crumb cake with a moist and buttery base topped with sweet streusel. Another delicious option is Apfelkuchen, a classic apple cake that combines the flavors of cinnamon and baked apples. Both of these recipes are beloved in Germany and make for wonderful desserts or breakfast treats.

Kaffee Krantz is a delightful pastry that brings together the flavors of coffee, butter, and sugar in a beautiful wreath shape. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply looking for a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the Kaffee Krantz with a hot cup of coffee or tea and savor the rich flavors of this German classic.