Arctic Berry Rollover

Background and Description

The Arctic Berry Rollover is a delightful dessert that celebrates the vibrant and refreshing flavors of the North. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional berry picking practices in Scandinavian countries, where families gather wild berries during the short summer months to create a variety of jams and desserts. The Arctic Berry Rollover combines these cherished berries with a light, flaky pastry to produce a dessert that is both comforting and invigorating. Berries such as lingonberries, cloudberries, and blueberries are often used, offering a balance of tartness and sweetness, perfectly encapsulating the taste of summer in the Arctic regions.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 2 cups
• Sugar - 3/4 cup
• Baking powder - 1 tablespoon
• Unsalted butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and cubed
• Egg - 1 large
• Milk - 1/2 cup
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Lingonberries - 1 cup, fresh or frozen
• Cloudberries - 1 cup, fresh or frozen
• Blueberries - 1 cup, fresh or frozen
• Lemon zest - 1 teaspoon
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
• Sea salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Egg wash for brushing

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Berries

Start by washing the lingonberries, cloudberries, and blueberries under cold water. If you are using frozen berries, allow them to thaw and drain any excess liquid. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel to remove any moisture. Mix the berries together in a bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the chilled, cubed butter and work it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk and vanilla extract, stirring to combine. Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Assemble the Rollover

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 12x18 inches. Spread the prepared lingonberries, cloudberries, and blueberries mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Sprinkle the cornstarch and lemon zest evenly over the berries. Carefully roll the dough, starting from one of the shorter sides, into a tight log, pinching the seams to seal.

Step 4: Bake the Rollover

Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with egg wash for a golden finish. Use a sharp knife to make small slits on the top of the roll to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Set a cooking timer for accuracy. Allow it to cool slightly on a rack before serving.

How to Enjoy the Arctic Berry Rollover

To savor the lingonberries, cloudberries, and blueberries within this crispy, flaky pastry, slice the roll into thick rounds and serve. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it perfect as a dessert or a sweet breakfast indulgence. Enhance your experience by pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness.

By appreciating the diverse flavors of the lingonberries, cloudberries, and blueberries, you connect with the enchanting landscapes and traditions of the Arctic, making each bite a tribute to the heritage of berry picking and the region's abundant natural resources.