Easy Kransekake Recipe: Kransekakestenger (Norwegian Almond Cookie Sticks)
Print RecipeThis simple kransekake recipe delivers all the chewy, almond-packed deliciousness of Norway's iconic celebration cake – but in easy-to-make sticks or bites. Naturally gluten-free and perfect for holidays.
Servings: 35 sticks
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Ingredients
Dough
- 4⅔ c. (500 g) almond flour superfine
- 4¾ c. (500 g) powdered sugar
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 3 egg whites about ⅓ cup + 1 Tbsp, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp almond extract
Royal Icing
- 2 tsp meringue powder
- 2 tbsp warm water
- ½ tsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp almond extract
- 1½ c. (180 g) powdered sugar sifted
Instructions
- Prepare the dough (do this a day ahead for best results): Mix together the almond flour, sugar, & salt. Add the egg whites, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix into a stiff, smooth dough (it should feel like firm marzipan).
- Chill: Wrap tightly and chill at least 2 hours or overnight – longer chilling makes shaping easier!
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape: Work with chilled dough. Roll into ½-inch thick ropes, (see notes if dough is too sticky or dry) Cut into 3–4 inch lengths. Place 1 inch apart on parchment-lined or nonstick baking sheets.
- Bake & Cool: Bake 8–10 minutes – bottoms lightly golden, tops pale for that perfect chewy center. Cool completely on the sheets.
- Make Royal Icing: Whisk meringue powder with water until frothy. Add lemon juice, almond extract, and powdered sugar for a thick, pipe-able consistency.
- Decorate: Drizzle zigzags over the cooled cookies.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature up to 6 weeks (they get even better!). Freeze up to 3 months.
- Chill time is key: Chill for at least 2 hours but overnight is best.
- Sticky - Dust with powdered sugar before rolling.
- Dry - add egg white 1 teaspoon at a time until it rolls without breaking.
- Avoid over-baking: Watch closely – chewy centers are the hallmark.
- Make ahead magic: Flavors meld beautifully after a few days.
Serving: 1stick | Calories: 345kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 17mg | Potassium: 9mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 42g | Vitamin A: 0.004IU | Vitamin C: 0.03mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 1mg
