Sockerkakor och Strass is a classic Swedish treat that typically refers to light, fluffy sockerkaka (a simple sponge cake) paired with strass, which are decorative sugar sprinkles or sometimes small edible pearls used to adorn cakes and pastries for a festive touch.
Sockerkaka (Swedish Sponge Cake)
Sockerkaka is one of Sweden’s most beloved cakes, known for its light texture and simple ingredients. It can be served on its own or decorated with sprinkles (strass), making it perfect for a special occasion or a casual fika (coffee break).
Here’s a recipe for Sockerkaka topped with strass (sugar sprinkles):
Sockerkaka (Swedish Sponge Cake)
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For decoration:
- Strass (Swedish sugar sprinkles or nonpareils)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan (about 9 inches in diameter) or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk:
- Add the dry ingredients in two additions, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
8. Decorate with Strass:
- Once the cake is completely cool, sprinkle the top with strass (sugar sprinkles) generously for a festive touch. You can also dust the cake with powdered sugar for an added decoration, but the strass will give it the true Swedish flair.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the sockerkaka with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a traditional Swedish fika.
- The cake can be enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a dollop of jam.
Tips for Success:
- Butter and Eggs: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve the best texture and consistency.
- Strass: The strass adds a fun and colorful decoration, but be careful not to add too many, as they can be very sweet.
- Other Variations: You can enhance the flavor of your sockerkaka by adding citrus zest (lemon or orange) or a few drops of almond extract.
Sockerkaka med Strass is a simple yet delightful cake that’s sure to brighten any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a party, or just treating yourself to something sweet, this Swedish cake topped with colorful sprinkles will bring a touch of happiness to your table! Enjoy!
