Laufabraud: Leaf Bread or The Snow Flake Cake

A traditional leaf bread eaten mostly at Christmas time. The country of origin is Iceland. They are very thin flat cakes usually decorated with intricate cut- through designs that resembles snowflakes or other geometric designs. They are either done by hand or with a brass roller that makes a beautiful design. In Iceland , it is now a custom for generations that the entire family participate in the preparation and the decorating of this cake during the holidays. Admirable culture, I must say. I wanted to experience this cherished custom a bit so I came up with this. Made some similar designs I hope you will like. Here's how. The dough for the bread is stiff but still smooth and moist. For 4 cups of flour you need 2 cups of milk, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder and oil for frying.

In a huge bowl mix flour, sugar, baking powder and melted butter. Boil the milk and add  to the mixture. Stir thoroughly then knead to a firm but smooth dough. Divide into 16 equal portions. Roll each to a thin sheath approximately 8 1/4 inches in diameter and use an eight inch plate to cut around dough. Stack the rounds between wax paper.

I use a sharp pointed knife and other home made tools to cut  the designs.

Fry each one in hot oil to a slight brown crisp wafer. When done, put between paper towels and put a flat pan on top while the bread is still soft. Then it will crisp quickly but quite flat.

I took a picture of this one against the light to show you. One can really make simple designs that come out lovely when fried. Enjoy!