Norwegian Kringler

Some of my fondest memories of the holiday season are of my three sisters and I helping our mom make holiday goodies.  This is a family favorite we would make almost every Christmas.  I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

BASE:

1 c. all-purpose or unbleached flour
1/2 c. butter
1 tbsp. water

Heat oven to 375 degrees.  In medium bowl, using pastry blender or fork, cut in 1/2 cup butter to 1 c. flour until particles are size of small peas.  Sprinkle flour mixture with 1 tablespoon water while tossing and mixing lightly with fork.  Form dough into ball; divide in half. On ungreased cookie sheet, form dough into 2 (14 x 3-inch) rectangles.

TOPPING:

1 c. water
1/2 c. butter
1 c. all-purpose flour or unbleached flour
1 tbsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
3 eggs

In medium saucepan, heat 1 cup water and 1/2 cup butter to boiling; remove from heat.  Add 1 cup flour; stir until smooth. Beat in 1 tablespoon sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Let cool slightly then add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.  Spread topping mixture lightly over base. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.

FROSTING:

1 c. powdered sugar
1 tbsp. half and half
1 tbsp. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
chopped nuts or almonds (optional)

In small bowl, combine glaze ingredients. Drizzle glaze over cooled Kringler. Sprinkle with chopped nuts or almonds if desired.  Yield: 20 servings.