S4 Ep 31: The History Of Kringla With Guest Rebecca Hanson
In this episode, we're joined by the talented actor, writer, and voice talent, Rebecca Hanson, as we explore the beloved Norwegian treat, kringla.
A Personal Connection to Kringla
Rebecca, being of Norwegian heritage, shares her personal connection to kringla—a sweet treat commonly enjoyed during Christmas in her family. Though kringla is not exclusive to the holiday season, it has become the ultimate Christmas vacation breakfast for her, paired with chocolate milk—a personal twist rather than a traditional accompaniment.
Butter or No Butter?
A point of debate among kringla enthusiasts is whether to add butter. Rebecca mentions her family's tradition of enjoying kringla with butter, although she prefers the treat unadorned. Her search for the ultimate kringla recipe led her to Smuk's Kitchen in Story City, Iowa, whose almond extract-kissed kringla made a memorable appearance at her wedding.
Kringla: A Historiacal Sweet
The history of kringla adds depth to the treat's cultural significance. The term kringla originates from the Old Norse word for "circle" or "ring," although its typical shape resembles a figure eight—a nod to its pretzel-like form. Sprung gives a fascinating insight into kringla’s background, explaining that its shape was originally a cosmic metaphor rather than a tasty treat.
The Pretzel Connection
Kringla and pretzels share historical ties, the latter having been developed by Catholic monks in the 7th century. Their shape symbolized arms folded in prayer, a tradition that spread across Europe, eventually merging with Scandinavian customs to become what is known today as kringla.
The Classic Yeasted Kringla vs. Midwestern Cookie Kringla
In Norway, kringla resembles a yeasted bread, characterized by its sweet roll-like texture and occasionally flavored with cardamom or anise seed. It pairs perfectly with coffee and conversation. However, as Norwegian immigrants settled in the Midwest during the 1800s, they adapted kringla recipes using baking soda or powder instead of yeast, resulting in a soft, cakey cookie.
The Immigrant Influence
Rebecca's family story echoes this immigrant tradition as they resettled in Iowa, bringing with them cherished customs, including kringla. The narrative of kringla is intertwined with the immigrant experience, preserving heritage through baking while adopting new influences in a new land.
A Taste Test Adventure
Inspired by the rich history and variation in kringla recipes, Rebecca plans to host a taste test with her family, comparing the traditional yeasted version against the Midwestern cookie style. Does anyone in the family hold a secret recipe that embodies the original taste? Only time will tell.
Modern Takes and Kringla's Pop Culture Moments
Today, both types of kringla delight enthusiasts and are celebrated at events like the Decorah, Iowa, Nordic Fest. Even Disney's Epcot features kringla at its Norwegian Pavilion, albeit in a sweet bread format occasionally drizzled with chocolate.
As kringla is rediscovered by new generations, it remains a culinary link to the past, celebrated for its versatile flavors and historical significance. Whether yeasted or cakey, kringla continues to connect communities, transcending time and geography.
Through the exploration of kringla, we witness the power of food to evoke nostalgia while serving as a cultural bridge.
You can watch each episode, in its video version, on YouTube here.
Follow on Instagram for some behind the scenes and short form content here.
Listen to each episode as a podcast on Amazon Music, Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.