Dammsugare
Swedish Punch Rolls
Dammsugare, literally meaning 'vacuum cleaner' in Swedish, are classic, no-bake Swedish pastries. These delightful rolls feature a rich, moist cake and butter filling, flavored with arrack liqueur (punsch), all enrobed in vibrant green marzipan and finished with chocolate-dipped ends. Traditionally made to use up leftover sponge cake, they are a beloved treat for fika (coffee break).
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Sponge cake or plain cake crumbs(Ensure the cake is dry but not stale. You can use leftover sponge cake, pound cake, or even plain biscuits processed into fine crumbs.)
- 75 g Unsalted butter(Softened to room temperature for easier mixing.)
- 2 tbsp Punsch (arrack liqueur)(Punsch is a traditional Swedish liqueur with a distinct flavor. If unavailable, a dark rum or even a strong, sweet tea can be substituted, though the flavor will differ.)
- 200 g Green marzipan(Store-bought or homemade. Ensure it's pliable.)
- 50 g Dark or semi-sweet chocolate(For dipping the ends. You can use chocolate chips or a chopped chocolate bar.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the filling base: In a medium bowl, combine the sponge cake crumbs and the softened butter. Use your fingertips or a spatula to thoroughly mix them together until the crumbs are evenly moistened and begin to clump, resembling wet sand. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Incorporate the punsch: Add the punsch (arrack liqueur) to the crumb and butter mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed. If it seems too dry, you can add a tiny splash more punsch or a teaspoon of water. If it seems too wet, add a few more crumbs.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Shape the rolls: Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion between your palms to form a cylinder shape, about 7-8 cm (3 inches) long and 2 cm (0.75 inches) in diameter. Aim for a firm, compact shape. Place the formed cylinders on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Prepare the marzipan coating: Lightly dust your work surface with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking. Knead the green marzipan briefly until it's soft and pliable. Roll out the marzipan thinly, about 2-3 mm thick. Cut the marzipan into 12 equal strips, each wide enough to wrap around the cake cylinders.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Enrobe the rolls: Take one cake cylinder and one marzipan strip. Carefully wrap the marzipan strip around the cylinder, pressing gently to adhere and ensure a smooth, even coating. Trim any excess marzipan. Repeat with the remaining cylinders and marzipan strips. Place the finished rolls back on the parchment-lined sheet.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 6
Melt and dip the ends: Gently melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method), or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat. Using a small spoon or a toothpick, dip one end of each marzipan-covered roll into the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip off. Place the rolls back on the parchment paper and let them set completely. You can speed this up by placing them in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The name 'Dammsugare' (vacuum cleaner) is said to come from the way these pastries were originally made to 'clean up' leftover cake scraps, much like a vacuum cleaner tidies up a floor.
- ✓While green is the traditional color for the marzipan, feel free to experiment with other colors for a festive touch.
- ✓For a smoother finish on the marzipan, you can lightly dampen your hands with water when wrapping it around the cake cylinders.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use different colored marzipan for a rainbow effect or themed treats.
- Omit the punsch for an alcohol-free version. A little vanilla extract or almond extract can be added for flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cake for the base, such as chocolate cake or gingerbread.