Swedish Tea Ring is a delightful treat that brings a touch of Scandinavian tradition to our table. This braided sweet bread filled with cinnamon, nuts, and raisins has been a beloved classic for generations. Thanks to Betty Crocker’s trusted recipe, we can easily recreate this festive and flavorful bread at home.
Perfect for sharing during holidays or cozy afternoons, the Swedish Tea Ring combines a soft, buttery dough with a rich, spiced filling. Its beautiful ring shape not only looks impressive but also makes it easy to pull apart and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in our baking rotation.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Swedish Tea Ring using Betty Crocker’s trusted recipe, we need to gather specific ingredients for the dough, filling, and glaze. These components combine to deliver the rich, buttery texture and warm flavorful filling that make this tea ring truly unforgettable.
Dough Ingredients
Our dough forms the soft, tender base of the Swedish Tea Ring. Here’s exactly what we’ll need to prepare it:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups | |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | |
| Instant yeast | 2 ¼ teaspoons | One packet |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | |
| Whole milk | ¾ cup | Warm (about 110°F) |
| Unsalted butter | ⅓ cup | Melted |
| Large egg | 1 | Room temperature |
Filling Ingredients
Our filling infuses the Swedish Tea Ring with its signature warmth and richness. These ingredients blend to form a luscious cinnamon, nut, and raisin mixture:
- Brown sugar – ½ cup, packed for that deep sweetness
- Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons, for aromatic spice
- Chopped pecans or walnuts – ½ cup, toasted to enhance flavor
- Raisins – ⅓ cup, plump and added for natural sweetness
- Unsalted butter – ¼ cup, softened to spread easily
Glaze Ingredients
A simple glaze enhances our tea ring with a shiny, sweet finish perfectly suited for pairing with hot tea or coffee:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | ¾ cup | Sifted |
| Milk | 1 to 2 tablespoons | Adjust for desired glaze consistency |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | Adds delicate flavor |
With these ingredients at hand, we are set to create a Swedish Tea Ring that captures the cozy spirit of Scandinavian baking.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Swedish Tea Ring with the authentic Betty Crocker touch, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures smooth preparation and flawless results.
Essential Tools for the Dough and Filling
- Large Mixing Bowl
We need this for combining the dough ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy is key, especially for yeast, flour, and sugar measurements.
- Whisk
Great for blending wet ingredients smoothly.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ideal for mixing the dough and scraping the bowl clean.
- Pastry Brush
To evenly brush melted butter on the dough and apply the glaze later.
- Knife or Bench Scraper
For slicing the rolled dough when forming the ring.
- Rolling Pin
To flatten the dough into the appropriate size before filling.
Baking and Finishing Equipment
- Baking Sheet or Round Cake Pan (approx. 9-10 inches)
Choose either based on your preference; a round pan helps maintain the traditional ring shape.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- Cooling Rack
Allows the ring to cool evenly after baking.
- Small Mixing Bowl
For preparing the glaze.
Oven Specifications for Baking
We recommend preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Your oven should maintain a steady temperature for even baking, which is vital to achieve the soft, golden crust characteristic of the Swedish Tea Ring.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Mix dough | Choose one big enough to avoid spills |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients | Accuracy improves bread texture |
| Rolling Pin | Roll dough flat | Use lightly floured surface |
| Pastry Brush | Apply butter and glaze | For even coverage |
| Knife/Bench Scraper | Cut dough strips | For precise shaping |
| Baking Sheet/Pan | Bake Tea Ring | Parchment lined to prevent sticking |
| Cooling Rack | Cool baked bread | Prevents soggy bottoms |
Having these tools at hand streamlines the baking process and brings us closer to that authentic, flavorful Swedish Tea Ring we aim to create together.
Prep Work
Before we begin shaping and baking our Swedish Tea Ring, it’s essential to prepare the dough and filling carefully. This ensures that every bite of this traditional Scandinavian bread is soft, flavorful, and perfectly spiced.
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm whole milk (110°F/43°C ideal) with the granulated sugar and instant yeast. Stir lightly and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step confirms our yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.
- Mix the wet ingredients: Add the melted unsalted butter (cooled to avoid cooking the yeast) and the large egg into the yeast mixture. Whisk gently until fully combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. This develops the gluten for a tender crumb.
- First rise: Lightly grease the mixing bowl. Place the dough inside and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
“Perfect dough is the foundation of an exceptional Swedish Tea Ring.”
Preparing the Filling
- Toast the nuts: Place your choice of chopped pecans or walnuts on a baking sheet. Toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes until fragrant. Allow to cool. Toasting enhances the flavor and crunch of the nuts.
- Combine filling ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until creamy and smooth.
- Add raisins and nuts: Fold the toasted nuts and plump raisins into the cinnamon-butter mixture. This creates a rich, sweet, and textured filling that complements the soft dough beautifully.
| Ingredient | Preparation Detail |
|---|---|
| Pecans or walnuts | Chopped and toasted |
| Raisins | Added whole or chopped |
| Brown sugar | Brown, packed for sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | Softened to room temperature |
| Ground cinnamon | Freshly ground preferred |
By completing these prep steps, we set ourselves up for a seamless assembly process and an irresistible Swedish Tea Ring that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a perfect Swedish Tea Ring using the Betty Crocker recipe. We will guide you through each stage to ensure a soft, flavorful bread with an irresistible filling.
Making the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm whole milk (110°F/43°C), granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Add melted unsalted butter and a large egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well blended.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the dough starts to come together.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead vigorously for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten essential for the soft crumb of the Swedish Tea Ring.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, covering it loosely with a clean kitchen towel.
Letting the Dough Rise
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. The dough should look puffy and spring back slowly when lightly pressed.
- This rise is crucial to achieve the tender, airy texture typical of a traditional Swedish Tea Ring.
Rolling Out the Dough
- Punch down the risen dough to release excess air.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll it into a large rectangle approximately 16 x 12 inches.
- Keep the thickness consistent, about 1/4 inch, to ensure even baking and filling distribution.
Adding the Filling
- Spread the prepared filling mixture evenly over the dough rectangle. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges for sealing purposes.
- The filling consists of softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, toasted chopped nuts, and raisins—all layered to create a sweet, spiced, and crunchy interior.
Shaping the Tea Ring
- Starting from the lengthwise edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
- Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, slice the log in half lengthwise to expose the filling layers.
- Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing up, carefully intertwining them to reveal the beautiful swirl of filling.
- Form the twisted dough into a ring and pinch the ends together to seal.
- Transfer the ring to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a greased round cake pan.
Final Proofing
- Cover the shaped ring loosely with a kitchen towel.
- Let it proof for an additional 30 to 40 minutes until it puffs up noticeably.
| Step | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dough rising | 1 hour | Dough doubles in size |
| Final proofing | 30-40 minutes | Dough puffs up before baking |
Baking immediately after this step ensures your Swedish Tea Ring achieves its signature soft texture and golden crust.
Baking Directions
Let’s bring our Swedish Tea Ring to life by following precise baking steps. Proper oven preparation and baking time are essential to achieving that perfect golden crust and soft, flavorful crumb.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This consistent medium heat ensures the bread bakes evenly, developing a soft interior and a delicately crisp exterior. We recommend placing the oven rack in the middle position to promote uniform heat circulation around the tea ring.
| Step | Temperature | Oven Rack Position |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | Middle |
| Bake Swedish Tea Ring | 350°F (175°C) | Middle |
Baking the Swedish Tea Ring
- Place the assembled Swedish Tea Ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a round cake pan. The parchment keeps the bottom from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Bake the tea ring for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles slightly.
- To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the dough (avoid the filling). It should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- If the tea ring browns too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
“Baking at 350°F allows the cinnamon, nuts, and raisins to meld beautifully into the soft bread, giving us that classic Swedish Tea Ring flavor.“
Cooling
- Remove the tea ring from the oven and transfer it immediately to a cooling rack to prevent the bottom from becoming soggy.
- Let it cool for at least 20 minutes before glazing or slicing. This allows the bread to set and the flavors to deepen.
- Once cooled, drizzle the prepared glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla over the ring for that signature shiny finish.
Tip: Cooling completely enhances the Swedish Tea Ring’s texture making every bite soft and rich without crumbling.
By following these baking directions carefully, our Swedish Tea Ring will come out perfectly soft, sweet, and ready to share with family and friends.
Glazing and Finishing Touches
Once our Swedish Tea Ring has cooled for at least 20 minutes on a rack, we are ready to add the signature glaze that gives this bread its beautiful shine and extra sweetness.
Preparing the Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients until smooth:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (sifted) |
| Milk | 2 to 3 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
- Tip: Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more gradually to reach a pourable but thick consistency.
We recommend whisking these components vigorously to eliminate lumps. The powdered sugar glaze should be silky and spread easily without being runny.
Applying the Glaze
- Using a pastry brush or a spoon, gently drizzle the glaze over the top of the cooled Swedish Tea Ring.
- Work quickly to cover the ring evenly, allowing the glaze to set into a glossy, sweet finish.
“The glaze adds not only a stunning sheen but also balances the cinnamon and nutty richness inside the tea ring.”
Optional Garnishes
For an elegant finishing touch, consider sprinkling one or more of the following over the wet glaze before it sets fully:
- Chopped toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- A light dusting of ground cinnamon
- Pearl sugar for a Scandinavian flair
Final Presentation
After glazing, let the tea ring rest for about 10 minutes to allow the glaze to harden slightly. This ensures a tidy presentation when cutting and serving.
By following these Glazing and Finishing Touches carefully, we bring out the best in our Swedish Tea Ring — creating a lustrous, inviting centerpiece perfect for sharing with guests over tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Swedish Tea Ring, we recommend serving it warm or at room temperature alongside a hot beverage. The buttery, cinnamon-spiced flavors beautifully complement both tea and coffee, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.
Optimal Pairings
- Black Tea: Bold teas like Earl Grey or English Breakfast enhance the rich cinnamon and nutty notes.
- Coffee: A medium roast coffee balances the sweet glaze and moist crumb of the ring.
- Herbal Tea: Chamomile or cinnamon-spiced herbal teas echo the warmth of the filling without overpowering it.
Presentation Tips
- Slice the tea ring into individual wedges to showcase the swirled filling.
- Arrange slices on a decorative platter for an inviting morning or holiday spread.
- Add a small bowl of softened butter or a cinnamon-spiked cream cheese for spreading on the slices.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts or pearl sugar for extra texture and visual appeal.
Serving Temperature Guide
| Serving Form | Temperature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Freshly baked | Warm (130°F-140°F) | Enhances softness and aroma |
| Cooled | Room temp (68°F-72°F) | Ideal for glazing and slicing |
| Leftover (reheated) | Slightly warm (100°F-110°F) | Restores tenderness without drying out |
“Serve our Swedish Tea Ring as a centerpiece with your favorite cup to create cozy moments worth savoring.”
Storage and Reheating for Serving
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly for up to 1 month.
- Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
By pairing this delightful bread with the right beverages and thoughtful presentation, we elevate the experience of our Swedish Tea Ring into a shared moment of warmth and joy.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy the Swedish Tea Ring at its freshest, proper make-ahead and storage methods are essential. Here’s how we can ensure our Swedish Tea Ring recipe Betty Crocker stays soft, flavorful, and ready to share.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare dough in advance: We can mix, knead, and let the dough rise the night before baking. After the first rise, punch it down, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This slow fermentation enhances flavor complexity.
- Filling readiness: Toasted nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container. Bring to room temperature before spreading.
- Assemble before baking: After rolling out the dough and adding the filling, shape the ring and proof it for the final rise. Instead of baking immediately, cover the shaped ring and refrigerate overnight. Remove 30 minutes before baking to come to room temperature.
Storage Tips
Once baked and glazed, storing the Swedish Tea Ring properly preserves freshness and texture.
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container at room temp. |
| Refrigerator | 4 to 5 days | Wrap in plastic wrap or place in airtight bag. Bring to room temperature before serving. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap then aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating. |
Reheating Instructions
To recapture that fresh-baked softness and aroma:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the tea ring on a baking sheet.
- Tent loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Warm for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
“Storing the Swedish Tea Ring in airtight containers ensures the dough stays moist and keeps the cinnamon-nut filling flavorful for days.”
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we maintain the integrity of this classic Scandinavian treat, keeping it perfect for every cozy gathering or special occasion.
Conclusion
The Swedish Tea Ring from Betty Crocker offers a wonderful way to bring a touch of Scandinavian tradition into our kitchens. Its inviting aroma and beautiful braided shape make it a standout treat for any occasion. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, it’s a recipe that anyone can master.
Whether we’re sharing it with family during holidays or enjoying a quiet moment with tea, this sweet bread never fails to impress. By following the tips and techniques we’ve covered, we can confidently bake a soft, flavorful tea ring that delights every time. Let’s keep this cozy tradition alive and enjoy every bite together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Swedish Tea Ring?
A Swedish Tea Ring is a traditional Scandinavian braided sweet bread filled with cinnamon, nuts, and raisins. It has a soft buttery dough and is shaped into a ring, perfect for sharing with tea or coffee.
What ingredients are used in Swedish Tea Ring dough?
The dough includes all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, salt, warm whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and a large egg.
What goes into the filling of the Swedish Tea Ring?
The filling is made with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, toasted chopped pecans or walnuts, raisins, and softened unsalted butter.
How do you make the glaze for the Swedish Tea Ring?
The glaze is a simple mix of sifted powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, brushed on after the bread cools.
What tools are needed to bake a Swedish Tea Ring?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, whisk, wooden spoon or spatula, pastry brush, knife or bench scraper, rolling pin, baking sheet or round cake pan, parchment paper, and a cooling rack.
What temperature should I bake the Swedish Tea Ring at?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking and a golden crust.
How long does it take to bake the Swedish Tea Ring?
Bake the tea ring for about 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Can I prepare the dough or filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and prepare the filling in advance to enhance flavors and save time.
What is the best way to serve a Swedish Tea Ring?
Serve warm or at room temperature with hot beverages like black tea, coffee, or herbal tea, sliced into wedges for easy sharing.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently before serving.