Swedish Hardtack – Knäckebröd

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 20

Traditional Swedish Hardtack - Knäckebröd Recipe for a Long-lasting Crispy Snack

by The Chefin Appetizer

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

35 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 pint buttermilk
	1/2 cup sugar
	1/2 cup butter ( not spread or tub product ) or 1/2 cup other shortening , melted ( not spread or tub product )
	1 teaspoon salt
	7/8 teaspoon baking soda
	3 1/2 cups rye flour , coarsely ground ( you may need to adjust the quantity , depending on the texture of the dough )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

Sugar

Fat

Swedish Hardtack - Knäckebröd is a traditional Swedish cracker that has been enjoyed since the Viking era. It is made from simple ingredients like rye flour, buttermilk, sugar, and butter or shortening. Swedish people would bake a batch of these crackers and carry it with them on long journeys at sea or on land as a staple food. Today, these hardtacks are still popular in Scandinavian and Nordic countries as a snack and a part of their cultural food heritage.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.	In a large bowl, mix together the buttermilk, sugar, melted butter or shortening, salt, and baking soda.
3.	Add the coarsely ground rye flour into the mixture and stir until the dough is firm.
4.	Roll the dough into a thin layer on a lightly floured baking sheet.
5.	Score into squares or rectangles and dock with a fork all over.
6.	Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crackers are hardened and golden brown in color.
7.	Remove the tray from the oven and let the crackers cool on a wire rack.
8.	Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

PROS

Swedish Hardtack – Knäckebröd has a long shelf life of up to 6 months if stored in an airtight container.

It is a convenient snack that pairs well with cheese, dips, and preserves.
This hardtack is low in sugar and fat content compared to other snacks.

CONS

These hardtacks are crunchy and dry in texture, which may not be preferable to some people.

It is recommended to drink water or another beverage while consuming to avoid choking.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Swedish Hardtack – Knäckebröd is a nutritious snack that is low in sugar and fat.
It is rich in dietary fiber and vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and selenium.
Rye flour in this recipe may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that promote gut and respiratory health.