We can’t resist the charm of a classic Swedish Tea Ring, a beloved pastry from Betty Crocker’s timeless recipes. Originating in Sweden, this sweet braided bread brings cozy holiday vibes with its cinnamon-spiced swirls and nutty fillings, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
As we dive into crafting our Swedish Tea Ring inspired by Betty Crocker’s timeless recipe, we’ll start with the essential ingredients that create its signature cinnamon-spiced swirls and nutty, tender texture. These components blend to deliver a warm, aromatic treat perfect for holiday gatherings, evoking the cozy flavors of Swedish tradition.
Dough Ingredients
We’ll begin with the base dough, which forms the soft, pillowy structure of our ring:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise and a light, fluffy result)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (around 110°F, to activate the yeast and promote even dough development)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for a subtle sweetness that balances the spices)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (melted if preferred, to add rich creaminess and moisture)
- 1 large egg (room temperature, to help bind and enrich the dough)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance flavor without overpowering the sweetness)
- 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted, added gradually to achieve a smooth, elastic dough that rolls easily)
Filling Ingredients
Next, these ingredients create the irresistible spiced filling, which we’ll layer in as we shape the ring for that iconic swirled effect:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (spreadable consistency for even distribution and a melt-in-your-mouth finish)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for deep, caramel-like notes that complement the cinnamon)
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (freshly ground if possible, to deliver a bold, aromatic warmth)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts, toasted for added crunch and nutty depth)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried currants (optional, for a burst of chewy sweetness that enhances the traditional appeal)
With these carefully selected ingredients, we’re set to transform simple pantry staples into a visually stunning and delectably scented Swedish Tea Ring that captures the essence of Betty Crocker’s classic. Stay tuned as we move to the preparation steps in the next section.
Equipment Needed
To seamlessly transition from preparing our ingredients for the Swedish Tea Ring—a beloved Betty Crocker classic—let’s gather the essential equipment. This ensures we can mix, shape, and bake this cinnamon-spiced delight with precision and ease.
We recommend the following tools, organized by the sequence of use in the recipe process:
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining dry ingredients like flour and yeast; its spacious design allows for thorough mixing without spills.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our dough’s success—use a 1-cup measure for flour and teaspoon measures for yeast and spices to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Saucepan: Perfect for warming milk to activate the yeast; opt for a medium-sized one to gently heat without scorching.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: We rely on this for kneading the dough efficiently; if using a hand mixer, attach a dough hook to mimic professional results and save time.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough into a rectangle—choose a wooden or silicone rolling pin to evenly spread the filling and create those signature swirls.
- Baking Sheet or Round Pan: A standard 9-inch baking sheet works best for shaping the ring; line it with parchment paper for easy release and a golden crust.
- Pastry Brush: Used to apply egg wash for a shiny finish; its soft bristles help us evenly coat the ring for that appealing, flaky texture.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: Critical for slicing the dough log before forming the ring; ensure it’s at least 8 inches long for clean, precise cuts.
- Oven Thermometer: To guarantee our oven is at the exact 375°F needed for baking; this tool prevents underbaking and ensures the Swedish Tea Ring rises perfectly.
| Equipment Item | Recommended Size | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | 4-6 quarts | Mixing and kneading dough |
| Measuring Cups | 1-cup set | Precise volume measurements |
| Saucepan | 2-quart | Heating liquids like milk |
| Stand Mixer | N/A | Efficient dough kneading |
| Rolling Pin | 15-18 inches | Rolling dough flat |
| Baking Sheet | 9×13 inches | Shaping and baking the ring |
| Pastry Brush | 1-2 inches wide | Applying washes and glazes |
| Knife or Pizza Cutter | 8-10 inches | Cutting and shaping dough |
| Oven Thermometer | N/A | Ensuring accurate baking temp |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s bring our Swedish Tea Ring to life with these straightforward steps. We’ll guide you through crafting this Betty Crocker-inspired treat, ensuring a flaky, aromatic result that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prepare the Dough
To start our Swedish Tea Ring, we begin by activating the yeast and mixing the dough for a soft, elastic base. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast in ½ cup of warm milk (around 110°F) and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add ¼ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of softened butter, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 3 cups of all-purpose flour. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky—if it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of warm milk at a time; if too wet, sprinkle in more flour gradually. This step creates a pliable dough that will rise beautifully and carry the warm, cinnamon-spiced flavors we love.
Let the Dough Rise
Once our dough is prepared, we allow it to rise for optimal texture and flavor development. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and place it in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size—the gentle warmth helps the yeast work its magic, filling the kitchen with a subtle, yeasty aroma. For best results, aim for a room temperature of 75-80°F; if your space is cooler, you can proof it in a turned-off oven with the light on. This rising process ensures the dough becomes light and airy, ready to hold the nutty filling.
Fill and Shape the Ring
With the dough risen, we move on to filling and shaping for that iconic braided look. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 15×9-inch rectangle, then spread 2 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over it. Sprinkle a mixture of ½ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, ½ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), and optional ¼ cup raisins. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then form it into a ring on a greased baking sheet, pinching the ends to seal. Using a sharp knife, make cuts every 1-2 inches around the ring to create slits that expose the filling—this step reveals the swirls of cinnamon and nuts, promising a visually stunning and irresistibly fragrant Swedish Tea Ring.
Bake the Tea Ring
Now we bake our shaped ring to achieve a golden, crisp exterior with a soft interior. Preheat your oven to 375°F and brush the ring with a beaten egg wash for a shiny finish. Bake on the center rack for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and an internal thermometer reads 190°F—the air will fill with the intoxicating scent of cinnamon and baked nuts, signaling a perfectly done treat. Keep an eye on it after 20 minutes to prevent over-browning, rotating the pan halfway through for even heat distribution.
Cool and Glaze
After baking, we cool and glaze the ring to lock in moisture and add a sweet touch. Remove the Swedish Tea Ring from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes to prevent sogginess. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract to make a simple glaze, then drizzle it over the warm ring for a glossy finish that enhances the cinnamon flavors. This final step ensures a tender, glazed pastry that’s ready to slice and enjoy, with each bite revealing layers of texture and taste.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Swedish Tea Ring from Betty Crocker’s timeless recipe even more convenient for busy holiday mornings or family gatherings, we recommend preparing components in advance. This allows the flavors to develop fully while saving time on the day of serving. Below, we outline step-by-step methods for make-ahead preparation, ensuring your ring emerges golden, aromatic, and irresistibly fresh.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
Follow these steps to mix and chill the dough up to 24 hours in advance:
- After mixing the dough as described in the previous steps, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
- Refrigerate the dough immediately after the initial kneading. This slows fermentation, enhancing the cinnamon-spiced depth and texture.
- When ready to use, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until it becomes pliable enough to roll out easily.
Assembling and Refrigerating the Ring
For a make-ahead assembly, shape the ring the night before and bake fresh in the morning:
- Once the dough has risen and been filled with the nutty, brown sugar filling, shape it into the signature ring as per our earlier instructions.
- Place the shaped ring on a prepared baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. This step lets the flavors meld, creating a more cozy, holiday-scented result.
- In the morning, remove the ring from the fridge and let it rise at room temperature for 30–60 minutes until it puffs up slightly before baking as directed.
Freezing Options
Freezing is ideal for longer storage, allowing you to enjoy your Swedish Tea Ring up to 2 months later. Here’s how we do it:
| Step | Method | Storage Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Freeze Unbaked Ring | Shape the filled ring, place on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Then, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for protection against freezer burn. |
| 2 | Freeze Baked Ring | After baking and cooling completely, wrap the ring in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze. This preserves the crisp exterior and soft, cinnamon-swirled interior. |
| 3 | Thawing and Baking | For unbaked: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then let rise at room temperature for 1 hour before baking. For baked: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Betty Crocker-inspired Swedish Tea Ring remains a showstopping, flavorful centerpiece without the last-minute rush.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring this Betty Crocker Swedish Tea Ring recipe with you. It’s more than just a bake—it’s a way to bring warmth and tradition into our kitchens.
By mastering these steps we’ve outlined, you’ll create a stunning treat that impresses family and friends. Let’s make it a holiday staple in our homes and enjoy every delicious moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Swedish Tea Ring?
A Swedish Tea Ring is a classic braided pastry from Sweden, popularized in Betty Crocker’s recipes. It’s a sweet bread filled with cinnamon-spiced swirls, nuts, and optional dried fruits, perfect for holidays and family gatherings. Its cozy, festive vibe makes it a beloved treat.
What ingredients are needed for a Swedish Tea Ring?
The dough requires active dry yeast, warm milk, sugar, butter, egg, salt, and all-purpose flour. For the filling, use butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and optional raisins or dried currants. These simple ingredients create a flavorful, textured pastry.
What equipment is required to make a Swedish Tea Ring?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a saucepan, a stand or hand mixer, a rolling pin, a baking sheet or round pan, a pastry brush, a sharp knife or pizza cutter, and an oven thermometer. These tools ensure easy mixing, shaping, and baking.
How do you make a Swedish Tea Ring?
Start by activating yeast and mixing dough ingredients, then let it rise. Roll out the dough, add filling, shape into a ring, and bake until golden. Cool and glaze for the finishing touch. The process takes about 2-3 hours, including rising time, for a perfect result.
Can you prepare a Swedish Tea Ring ahead of time?
Yes, make the dough and assemble the ring in advance, then refrigerate overnight for flavors to develop. For longer storage, freeze unbaked or baked rings. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain freshness, ideal for busy holidays.
How should you store or freeze a Swedish Tea Ring?
Store baked rings at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for a week. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F until warm, preserving the soft texture and flavor.