Vanilla Wreaths, or Vaniljekranse, are essential to Danish holiday traditions. First made in the mid-19th century, these cookies are a December favorite. Made from wheat flour, butter, sugar, vanilla, and almonds, they offer a delicious taste and feature a distinctive star-shaped pattern.
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly who first made Vanilla Wreaths. Madam Mangor is a prominent figure associated with their history, with her earliest recipes dating back to 1842. Today, these cookies are recognized globally and often seen in the iconic blue “Royal Dansk” tins at Christmas markets.
For those who prefer convenience, pre-made Danish butter cookies available in these tins are a great alternative. They capture the essence of traditional homemade Vanilla Wreaths and are widely available online.
A Historic Recipe Preserved
One of the oldest known recipes for Vanilla Wreaths comes from Madam Mangor’s 1866 cookbook, titled “Fortsættelse af Kogebog for små Husholdninger.” This particular recipe is recognized for its authenticity and is still used today by the bakery in Den Gamle By, a historic town in Aarhus, Denmark.
Following this recipe, one can make about 80 exquisite cookies. It’s important to note that the original recipe calls for bitter almonds, a component that can be rare in some places but is available for purchase online.
The process of making Vanilla Wreaths involves a careful blend of ingredients and techniques to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. The dough is typically prepared by creaming together butter and sugar, then gradually adding the dry ingredients.
Almonds are finely ground and mixed into the dough along with a generous amount of vanilla to enhance the flavor. The dough is then extruded through a star-shaped nozzle to form the wreaths before baking.
Cultural Significance
In Denmark, Vanilla Wreaths are a key part of the holiday culture. Families often bake these cookies together during the festive season, involving everyone from children to adults. This tradition is not just about making cookies; it’s about passing on baking skills, preserving recipes, and coming together to celebrate a shared heritage and the joy of the season.
While traditional recipes remain popular, modern adaptations of Vanilla Wreaths have also emerged. Some variations include incorporating different flavors such as chocolate or citrus to cater to diverse palates. Additionally, gluten-free versions have become available, making the cookies accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
The popularity of Vanilla Wreaths has transcended Danish borders, making them beloved in many other countries. They are commonly featured in Scandinavian-themed markets around the world, especially during the holiday season. The widespread popularity of these cookies shows how much people everywhere enjoy their delicious taste and the festive spirit they bring to holiday baking.
Danish Vanilla wreath recipe from 1866
This revered recipe, originating from Madam Mangor’s 1866 Danish cookbook “Fortsættelse af Kogebog for små Husholdninger,” is still in use today at the bakery in Den Gamle By, Aarhus, Denmark. Here’s how you can make about 80 delicious vanilla wreaths:
Vanilla Wreaths Ingredients:
- 500 grams wheat flour
- 350 grams soft butter
- 250 grams sugar
- 250 grams sweet-chopped almonds
- 15 grams bitter chopped almonds (or substitute with sweet almonds)
- 1/2 vanilla bean, finely chopped (approx. 2 grams)
- 1 egg
How to Make Vanilla Wreaths – Method One
- Combine the flour, butter, sugar, vanilla bean, and almonds in a bowl.
- Knead until the dough stops sticking to your hands.
- Roll into a sausage shape about the thickness of your finger.
- Cut into 12 cm long pieces, then shape each into a wreath with a large hole in the center.
- Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes until light brown.
How to Make Vanilla Wreaths with Grooves – Method Two
- Prepare the dough as above.
- For grooved wreaths, use a piping bag with a special vanilla wreath nozzle to shape the dough.
- Bake as described above.
Vanilla wreaths taste best served with a beverage, as they can be slightly dry—perfect for dipping in your morning coffee or a relaxing evening tea. Why not try making them this holiday season and maybe even start a new tradition of your own?