We’ve always been fans of the Betty Crocker Swedish Tea Ring a timeless treat that brings a slice of Scandinavian tradition to our kitchens. Originating from Sweden this sweet braided pastry with its cinnamon swirls and nutty fillings offers cozy comfort perfect for holiday gatherings or lazy weekends.
It’s no wonder this recipe has stood the test of time as we love how easy it is to bake up a batch that’ll impress family and friends. Join us as we dive into this Betty Crocker classic and make it your own.
Ingredients
As we dive into our Betty Crocker Swedish Tea Ring recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients that bring this Scandinavian-inspired pastry to life. We’ll organize them by category for clarity, starting with the dough, then the filling, and finally the glaze. This ensures everything is ready in the order we use it, making your baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Dough Ingredients
- 1 package (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast: Proof in warm water to activate its rising power.
- ¼ cup warm water (about 110°F): Used to dissolve the yeast for a fluffy dough base.
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F): Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and feeds the yeast.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and strengthens the dough structure.
- 1 large egg: Beaten to incorporate air and moisture.
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour: Gradually added to form a soft, kneadable dough; sift for even texture.
Filling Ingredients
- ½ cup softened butter: Spread evenly over the rolled dough for a decadent layer.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Mixed with spices to create the sweet filling.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that warm, aromatic essence.
- ½ cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts): Toasted for extra crunch and flavor depth.
- ½ cup raisins (optional): Plumped in warm water if you prefer a juicy, fruity twist.
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sifted to avoid lumps for a smooth finish.
- 2–3 tablespoons milk: Added gradually to achieve the perfect drizzling consistency.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle, sweet aroma to tie everything together.
These high-quality ingredients ensure our Swedish Tea Ring boasts a tender, cinnamon-kissed swirl that’s perfect for any gathering. Note that precise measurements are key to replicating the classic Betty Crocker charm.
Required Equipment
Now that we have gathered our ingredients for the Swedish Tea Ring, we turn our attention to the essential tools that make preparing this beloved pastry straightforward and enjoyable. Having the right equipment ensures our dough rises perfectly, the filling distributes evenly, and the final bake achieves that golden, aromatic crust.
To prepare and bake our Swedish Tea Ring, we recommend the following key items. We’ve organized them by preparation stage for clarity and efficiency:
-
Dough Preparation Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining yeast, liquids, and dry ingredients to create a smooth, elastic dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is crucial—use these for accurate measurements of flour, sugar, and liquids to achieve the recipe’s tender texture.
- Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: Speeds up kneading the dough, helping us incorporate air for a light, fluffy result; a hand mixer works if we prefer a more hands-on approach.
- Saucepan: Necessary for gently warming milk and water, ensuring the yeast activates without overheating.
-
Shaping and Filling Equipment:
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough into a rectangle, allowing us to spread the cinnamon-nut filling evenly for those signature swirls.
- Knife or bench scraper: Helps us cut and shape the dough ring precisely, preventing tears and ensuring an even bake.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying melted butter or egg wash, which gives our ring its glossy, golden finish.
- Baking sheet or round cake pan: Provides a stable base for the shaped ring; line it with parchment paper for easy release and cleanup.
- Oven: Set to the precise temperature for baking—our Swedish Tea Ring needs even heat to develop its warm, cinnamon-kissed aroma.
- Cooling rack: Allows the baked ring to cool evenly, preserving its texture before we add the glaze for a professional touch.
By using these tools, we ensure our baking process is seamless and our Swedish Tea Ring turns out as delightful as the Scandinavian tradition it represents.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, let’s guide you through crafting the iconic Betty Crocker Swedish Tea Ring with confidence and ease. We ensure each step delivers a tender, aromatic pastry that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prepare the Dough
We start by activating the yeast to create a soft, elastic dough that forms the base of our Swedish Tea Ring. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast in 1/4 cup of warm water (around 110°F) and let it sit for 5 minutes until it foams, signaling it’s ready.
Next, we heat 1/2 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat until the butter melts, then remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt until fully dissolved. In the same bowl, beat 1 large egg, then add the warm milk mixture and 2 cups of all-purpose flour, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon to form a shaggy dough.
Gradually incorporate another 1 1/2 to 2 cups of all-purpose flour, kneading on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and springs back when pressed, developing a silky texture that promises a light, fluffy ring.
First Rise
Once the dough is prepared, we let it rest and rise to enhance its flavor and structure. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat all sides, then cover with a clean kitchen towel and set it in a warm, draft-free spot.
Allow the dough to rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size, filling your kitchen with a subtle, yeasty aroma that hints at the cinnamon-kissed delight to come.
Shape the Tea Ring
With the dough risen, we shape it into the signature ring that makes our Swedish Tea Ring visually stunning and fun to serve. Punch down the dough to release air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 15×9-inch rectangle, ensuring even thickness for uniform baking.
Spread a luscious filling of 1/4 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/2 cup chopped nuts, and 1/2 cup raisins evenly over the dough, pressing lightly to adhere. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then join the ends to form a ring, pinching seams securely.
Use a sharp knife to make cuts around the ring at 1-inch intervals, about two-thirds through, to create the braided effect, revealing the spicy, nutty layers that will bake into a golden, irresistible swirl.
Second Rise
We give the shaped ring a second rise to achieve that pillowy texture and enhance the flavors. Transfer the ring to a greased baking sheet or round cake pan, cover loosely with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 30-45 minutes, or until it puffs up noticeably.
During this time, the dough absorbs the cinnamon and nut aromas, transforming into a visually appealing ring that’s nearly ready for the oven, promising a flaky exterior and soft interior.
Bake the Tea Ring
Now we bake our Swedish Tea Ring to golden perfection, locking in the warm spices and creating a pastry that’s crisp on the outside yet tender inside. Preheat your oven to 375°F and brush the ring with 1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water for a shiny finish.
Bake in the center of the oven for 25-30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning, until the ring turns a deep golden color and fills the air with an enticing, cinnamon-spiced scent that signals it’s done.
Add Glaze or Topping
Finally, we enhance our baked Swedish Tea Ring with a sweet glaze that adds a glossy finish and extra flavor. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and drizzleable, adjusting milk for desired consistency.
Generously drizzle the glaze over the warm ring, letting it cascade into the cuts for a sweet contrast to the spiced filling, then sprinkle with extra chopped nuts if desired, creating a visually striking and delectably moist treat ready to slice and enjoy.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Betty Crocker Swedish Tea Ring even more convenient for busy schedules or holiday gatherings, we can prepare components in advance without compromising its fluffy texture and cinnamon-kissed aroma. This approach allows us to save time while ensuring the pastry remains fresh and irresistible when served.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We recommend making the dough up to 24 hours in advance for optimal flavor development. Follow these steps to get ahead:
- Activate and mix the dough as directed: Once the dough reaches the first rise stage, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate immediately: Let it rise slowly in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This cold fermentation enhances the dough’s taste and makes it easier to handle.
- Bring to room temperature: When ready to use, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes until it softens. Punch it down gently before proceeding to shape and fill.
Making the Filling in Advance
The cinnamon-nut filling can be prepared up to 3 days ahead, giving us more time to focus on assembly.
- Combine ingredients early: Mix the butter, cinnamon, nuts, and raisins in a bowl as per the recipe.
- Store properly: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate. For best results, let it come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before spreading to ensure even distribution and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Assembling the Ring Ahead
For a make-ahead option that minimizes morning prep, we can shape and fill the ring in advance.
- Shape and fill as instructed: After the second rise, cover the assembled ring loosely with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 12 hours: Place it in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld while maintaining the ring’s signature golden, aromatic crust.
- Bake fresh: In the morning, remove it from the fridge and let it rise at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before baking as usual.
Storing Baked Swedish Tea Rings
If we’ve baked extras, proper storage keeps the Swedish Tea Ring moist and flavorful for days.
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Cool the ring completely on a wire rack, then wrap it in foil or store in an airtight container at room temperature. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate to preserve freshness—reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore its warm, flaky appeal. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap individual slices or the whole ring in freezer-safe material, then thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven for a just-baked taste. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our Betty Crocker Swedish Tea Ring is always ready to impress with its tender crumb and sweet glaze, making it a go-to for effortless entertaining.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on the Betty Crocker Swedish Tea Ring
It’s a timeless favorite that brings warmth to any occasion
As we wrap up let’s encourage you to make it your own
You’ll find it’s not just a recipe but a way to create cherished memories with loved ones
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Swedish Tea Ring?
A Swedish Tea Ring is a traditional Scandinavian pastry, often linked to Betty Crocker’s recipes. It’s a sweet, braided ring filled with cinnamon, nuts, and sometimes raisins, perfect for holidays or casual gatherings. This treat offers a tender, flavorful swirl that’s simple to make and customize, making it a timeless favorite for sharing.
What ingredients are needed for Betty Crocker’s Swedish Tea Ring?
For Betty Crocker’s Swedish Tea Ring, you’ll need ingredients for the dough (active dry yeast, warm water and milk, sugar, salt, egg, flour, butter), filling (cinnamon, nuts, raisins), and glaze (powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract). Precise measurements ensure a soft, elastic dough with a cinnamon-kissed filling and sweet topping for the best flavor and texture.
What equipment is required to make a Swedish Tea Ring?
Essential equipment includes a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a stand mixer or hand mixer, saucepan, rolling pin, knife or bench scraper, pastry brush, baking sheet or cake pan, oven, and cooling rack. These tools help with dough preparation, even filling distribution, rising, and baking for a golden, aromatic result.
How do I make a Swedish Tea Ring step by step?
Start by activating yeast and mixing dough ingredients, then let it rise until doubled. Roll out the dough, add filling, shape into a ring, and let it rise again. Bake until golden, about 25-30 minutes, then glaze. This process creates a moist, flavorful pastry ideal for any occasion—total time is around 2-3 hours including rises.
Can I make the Swedish Tea Ring ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance for cold fermentation to enhance flavor. Make the filling 3 days ahead, and assemble the ring up to 12 hours before baking by refrigerating it. This makes it convenient for busy schedules or holidays, ensuring fresh, tender results when you’re ready to bake.
How should I store a baked Swedish Tea Ring?
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Proper storage keeps the pastry moist and flavorful, perfect for enjoying leftovers anytime.