Christmas Krinklair

This recipe is actually a tradition I started with my family and each year our daughters and sons-in-law look forward to munching on this with their coffee while opening presents. This year is a little different. I still baked, but most of our family isn't here. So, here is the recipe for the Krinklair for you to start a tradition with your family. 

Preheat oven to 375F-degrees. 

In the food processor pulse:
1/2 cup butter (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 cup King Arthur all-purpose flour

Once mixed, add 1 - 2T cold water and pulse again until the dough comes together.  Place dough in pieces in two strips approx. 12 x 3-inches.  Then, press with your fingers to form base.

To make the cream-puff center:

In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter to a low boil.   When the butter has melted, quickly stir in 1 cup all-purpose flour.  Mix until the flour has been "cooked" and incorporated.

Place this mixture into the food processor and add 1/4 tsp. almond flavoring.

While the processing is running, add 3 eggs, one at a time, making sure it's incorporated thoroughly before adding the next egg.

Divide dollops of this mixture between the two base crusts and smooth with an off-set spatula.  Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes.  Allow to cool before spreading with the icing. 

Frosting: In a mixing bowl, add 3-ounces of cream cheese, 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature) and 2 cups of confectioners' sugar. Whip until very smooth. Add 1/2 tsp. almond extract and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or use your favorite flavor...coconut, eggnog, etc.)
Spread frosting over cooled pastry. Sprinkle with toasted almonds, pecans, crushed candy canes, or chocolate sprinkles.

I've updated this recipe to share with everyone.  It's still a tradition and I'll be making this up tomorrow morning to have while opening presents.  Our grandson is here with his dad and it will be a quiet morning, full of memories past.  I hope you all have a joyous holiday with your families, XOXO