?Swedish Tea Ring is a traditional recipe that dates back to the 18th century. It is a sweet, yeasted cake that is typically filled with jam, marzipan, or cream cheese. The cake is then formed into a ring shape and baked. Swedish Tea Ring is often served at Christmas time, but can be enjoyed any time of year.
Soften yeast in water. Add sugar, salt, shortening, and egg. Add flour slowly, beating thoroughly after each addition until dough is just stiff enough to knead. Turn onto lightly floured board and knead until smooth and elastic. (This dough should be slightly softer than a bread dough.) Place in a bowl, cover with a warm, damp cloth, set in a warm place and allow to double in bulk. Work down lightly. Cover and allow to double in bulk the second time. Turn onto lightly floured board and roll in sheet 1 1/2 inches thick. Spread with melted butter or butter substitute and sprinkle generously with sugar and cinnamon, and roll as a jelly roll. Pinch the edges together and join ends to form a ring. Place in an oiled pan or on an oiled baking sheet. Cut the dough with the scissors in 3-inch pieces, cutting 3/4 through the ring. Turn each section so that it lies flat on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with sugar and chopped nuts. Cover with a warm, damp cloth and let rise until treble in bulk. Bake in hot oven (425° F) about 30 minutes. If desired 1/2 cup raisins may be added to the dough.