Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Breads

Sweet Name-Day Bread (Kliņģeris)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
35 min
Prep
35 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 500 g (4 cups) plain flour
  • 7 g (1 sachet) instant yeast
  • 250 ml (1 cup) warm milk
  • 80 g (1/3 cup) sugar
  • 2 eggs, plus 1 for egg wash
  • 100 g (1/2 cup) butter, softened
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 100 g (2/3 cup) raisins
  • 50 g (1/2 cup) flaked almonds
  • 2 tbsp coarse sugar, for topping

Method

  1. Whisk the yeast into the warm milk with a pinch of the sugar and let stand for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, cardamom and salt.
  3. Work in the yeast mixture, eggs and softened butter, kneading for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Knead in the raisins until evenly distributed, then cover and prove for 1 hour until doubled.
  5. Shape the dough into a long rope and form it into a pretzel or figure-eight shape on a lined baking tray.
  6. Cover and prove for a further 30 minutes.
  7. Brush with beaten egg, scatter with flaked almonds and coarse sugar, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown.
  8. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Introduction: Kliņģeris is a golden, pretzel-shaped sweet bread studded with raisins and perfumed with cardamom, traditionally baked to mark birthdays and name days across Latvia.

Cultural Background: Kliņģeris is a golden, pretzel-shaped sweet bread studded with raisins and perfumed with cardamom, traditionally baked to mark birthdays and name days across Latvia. Its distinctive shape and glossy, sugar-dusted crust make it an unmistakable presence at family celebrations.

Tips: Cover the shaped loaf loosely while proving to prevent a skin forming on the surface.

Variations: Add a spoonful of candied orange peel alongside the raisins for extra festive flavour.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Warm slices briefly in a low oven or toaster if desired.

FAQs:

Q: Why is this bread shaped like a pretzel?

A: The looped shape is traditional and symbolic, often associated with celebration and good fortune in Latvian custom.

Q: Can I prepare the dough the night before?

A: Yes, complete the first rise, then refrigerate overnight and shape the next day after bringing to room temperature.

© Arscale 2026