Heres Some Camping Tips & Tricks at Your Fingertips
Our Knoxville Campground Blog is the information you need to make your next camping trip in Tennessee even more enjoyable. From RV and camping tips and tricks, to amazing campfire recipes, to advice on planning your next trip in Knoxville, TN... the information below is here to help you. And please, feel free to comment and share your experiences, knowledge and favorite recipes. At Knoxville Campground, we are a family and all here to help each other enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest!
Rock Painting & Nature Painting
Rock painting and nature painting are both enjoyable and creative activities that can bring you closer to the beauty of the natural world. Here are some ideas and tips for each type of painting project:
Rock Painting
Materials Needed:
- Smooth, flat rocks (washed and dried)
- Acrylic paints
- Paintbrushes of various sizes
- Paint markers (optional)
- Sealant (clear acrylic spray or brush-on sealant)
- Water cup (for rinsing brushes)
- Palette (or a disposable plate)
- Paper towels or cloth
Steps:
- Prepare Your Rocks: Choose smooth, flat rocks for an easy painting surface. Wash and dry the rocks thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Plan Your Design: Sketch your design on paper first if needed. You can paint animals, mandalas, inspirational words, abstract patterns, or nature scenes.
- Base Coat: Apply a base coat of paint if you want a solid background color. Let it dry completely before adding more details.
- Paint Your Design: Use fine brushes and paint markers to add details to your rock. Acrylic paints work well because they are vibrant and dry quickly.
- Dry and Seal: Let your painted rocks dry completely. Once dry, apply a clear acrylic spray or brush-on sealant to protect the paint and make your design last longer.
- Display or Share: Use your painted rocks to decorate your garden, give them as gifts, or leave them in public places for others to find and enjoy.
Ideas:
- Inspirational Messages: Paint words or phrases like “Hope,” “Love,” or “Be Kind.”
- Nature Themes: Paint flowers, trees, animals, or insects.
- Patterns and Mandalas: Create intricate patterns or mandalas for a mesmerizing effect.
- Seasonal Designs: Paint rocks for different seasons or holidays.
Nature Painting
Materials Needed:
- Canvas or heavy paper
- Acrylic, watercolor, or oil paints
- Paintbrushes of various sizes
- A palette (or a disposable plate)
- Easel (optional)
- Water cup (for rinsing brushes)
- Paper towels or cloth
- Pencil (for sketching)
Steps:
- Choose a Subject: Find a natural subject that inspires you, such as a landscape, flowers, trees, or animals. You can paint en plein air (outdoors) or use a reference photo.
- Sketch Your Design: Lightly sketch your subject on the canvas or paper with a pencil to guide your painting.
- Prepare Your Colors: Mix your paints on the palette to get the desired colors. Nature painting often involves a variety of greens, browns, blues, and other natural colors.
- Start Painting: Begin with the background and larger areas, then gradually work towards the smaller details. Use different brush sizes to achieve various effects.
- Layer and Blend: Use layering and blending techniques to create depth and texture. For example, in watercolor painting, use wet-on-wet for soft edges and wet-on-dry for more defined lines.
- Final Touches: Add final details and highlights to make your painting come alive. Let your painting dry completely if using acrylic or oil paints.
- Display Your Art: Frame your finished painting or hang it as is. Share it with friends and family or keep it as a personal memento of your connection with nature.
Ideas:
- Landscapes: Paint scenes of mountains, forests, beaches, or meadows.
- Floral Arrangements: Focus on a single flower or a bouquet.
- Wildlife: Capture the beauty of birds, deer, fish, or other animals in their natural habitats.
- Abstract Nature: Use colors and shapes to create an abstract interpretation of natural elements.
Both rock painting and nature painting are wonderful ways to express creativity and enjoy the outdoors. Choose the activity that resonates with you, gather your materials, and let your imagination guide you! Try rock or nature painting while at Knoxville Campground!
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for camping. Here’s a simple recipe you can prepare over a campfire or camping stove:
Ingredients:
- For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth (you can use bouillon cubes if packing light)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup egg noodles or other pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Cooking Area:
- Set up your campfire or camping stove. For campfire cooking, ensure you have a stable setup with a grate or a heat-resistant pot stand.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the carrots, celery, and potato (if using), and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Chicken:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded or diced chicken.
- Stir in the thyme, parsley, bay leaf (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Noodles:
- Stir in the egg noodles or pasta and continue to simmer until the noodles are cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Add Optional Vegetables:
- If you’re using frozen peas or corn, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Camping:
- Pre-chop Vegetables: Chop the vegetables and prepare the chicken ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers or zip-lock bags to make cooking easier at the campsite.
- Use a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven or heavy-duty pot works well for cooking soup over a campfire.
- Pack Light: If you’re packing light, consider using canned chicken and pre-cooked noodles to simplify the preparation.
This chicken noodle soup is easy to make and perfect for warming up after a day of camping at Knoxville Campground!
The Spooky Legends of Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville and Clinton, Tennessee, are both rich in history, folklore, and legends that have been passed down through generations. Here are a few notable stories and legends from the area. Read on if you dare!
The Legend of the White Screamer
- Origin: In the woods near Knoxville, there’s a tale about a mysterious creature known as the White Screamer. This eerie legend tells of a ghostly, white figure that roams the forest, emitting terrifying screams that can be heard for miles. Some say it’s the spirit of a woman who lost her children, while others believe it’s a banshee-like creature warning of impending doom.
The Curse of James White
- Origin: James White, the founder of Knoxville, is said to have placed a curse on the city after his land disputes led to disagreements with local settlers. The legend suggests that he cursed the area to never grow beyond a small town, though Knoxville has since defied that curse, growing into a significant city in Tennessee.
The Haunted Bijou Theatre
- Origin: The Bijou Theatre, built in 1909, is one of Knoxville’s oldest landmarks and is reputed to be haunted. Stories tell of a Confederate soldier, a woman in white, and other spirits that roam the theatre. Visitors and employees have reported strange occurrences, from cold spots to inexplicable noises and apparitions.
The Legend of Ramsey House
- Origin: The Ramsey House, built in 1797, is one of Knoxville’s oldest homes. Legend has it that the house is haunted by the spirits of former residents, including Francis Alexander Ramsey and his family. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures, hearing unexplained noises, and feeling an eerie presence in the house, particularly in the basement and attic.
The Ghost of the Green McAdoo School
- Origin: The Green McAdoo School, now a cultural center and museum, was central to the desegregation of Clinton High School in the 1950s. Some locals believe the school is haunted by the spirits of those who experienced the turmoil of that era. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps, whispers, and seeing unexplained shadows, particularly in the areas where historical events took place.
The Legend of the Clinton Dragon
- Origin: An old legend in Clinton speaks of a mythical dragon that was said to live in the hills surrounding the town. The dragon was believed to be a guardian of the land, protecting it from intruders. According to the tale, the dragon would only appear during times of great danger, ensuring the safety of the town and its people. While there are no recent sightings, the story is still told as part of the area’s folklore.
The Haunted Hoskins Drug Store
- Origin: Hoskins Drug Store is one of Clinton’s oldest establishments, dating back to the early 20th century. It’s rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former employee who tragically died in the building. Patrons and staff have reported strange occurrences, such as objects moving on their own, unexplained cold spots, and the sound of footsteps in empty rooms.
The Phantom Train of Clinton
- Origin: There’s a local legend about a ghostly train that is said to appear on the tracks near Clinton. According to the story, the train, which vanished in the early 1900s, reappears on foggy nights, its lights glowing eerily in the mist. Some say the train is searching for its lost passengers, while others believe it’s a residual haunting from a tragic accident that occurred on the tracks.
The Mysterious Lights of Norris Lake
- Origin: Near Clinton, Norris Lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing. However, some locals tell of mysterious lights that can be seen hovering over the lake at night. These lights are often attributed to spirits of the Cherokee who once inhabited the land or to the lost souls of those who perished in the construction of the Norris Dam. The lights have never been fully explained, adding to the lake’s mystique.
The Spirit of the Old Clinton Courthouse
- Origin: The old Clinton Courthouse, a historic building in the town, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former judge. Legend has it that the judge was involved in a scandal and took his own life in the courthouse. Since then, there have been reports of a shadowy figure seen pacing the halls, and the sound of a gavel striking late at night, even when the building is empty.
These legends and stories are an integral part of Knoxville and Clinton’s cultural heritage, adding to the mystique and charm of these historic Southern cities. If you’re lucky enough, maybe you’ll see something spooky while staying at Knoxville Campground!
Pumpkin Bread
Here’s a classic and delicious pumpkin bread recipe that’s perfect for fall or anytime you’re craving a moist, flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk or water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, e.g., walnuts or pecans)
- ½ cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and pumpkin puree. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, milk or water, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- If you’re using nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips:
- For added flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top of the batter before baking.
- The bread can be stored at room temperature for a few days, or it can be frozen for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade pumpkin bread while staying at Knoxville Campground!
Wildlife That Can Be Found Around Knoxville Campground
Around Knoxville Campground in Clinton, Tennessee, you’ll find a variety of wildlife typical of the Appalachian region. Here’s a list of animals you might encounter:
Mammals:
- White-tailed Deer: Often seen grazing in fields or forest edges, especially during dawn and dusk.
- Eastern Gray Squirrel: Commonly seen in trees and on the ground, these squirrels are a frequent sight in wooded areas.
- Raccoon: Nocturnal animals that are often spotted near campsites scavenging for food.
- Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: These rabbits are commonly seen hopping through meadows or along the edges of wooded areas.
- Black Bear: While sightings are rare, black bears are present in the region and occasionally venture into campgrounds.
Birds:
- Northern Cardinal: Tennessee’s state bird, easily recognizable by its bright red plumage and melodic song.
- Eastern Bluebird: These colorful birds are often found perched in open fields or along fence lines.
- Red-tailed Hawk: Frequently seen soaring overhead, hunting for small mammals.
- Pileated Woodpecker: A large woodpecker with a distinctive red crest, often heard drumming on trees.
- Barred Owl: Known for its distinctive “who cooks for you” call, this owl is often heard at night.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
- Eastern Box Turtle: Common in wooded areas, these turtles are often seen crossing trails or roads.
- Black Rat Snake: A non-venomous snake that can be found in wooded areas or near water.
- Copperhead: A venomous snake that blends in with leaf litter, typically found in rocky or wooded areas. Caution is advised.
- Green Tree Frog: Often found near water sources, these frogs are known for their loud croaking in the evenings.
- Five-Lined Skink: A small lizard with distinctive stripes, often seen basking on rocks or logs.
Fish:
- Largemouth Bass: Common in nearby lakes and rivers, a popular catch for anglers.
- Bluegill: Often found in ponds and lakes, these small sunfish are abundant in the region.
- Channel Catfish: A frequent inhabitant of rivers and lakes, known for its whisker-like barbels.
Insects and Invertebrates:
- Fireflies: These bioluminescent insects are a common sight in the summer, creating a magical display at dusk.
- Eastern Tiger Swallowtail: A large, yellow butterfly often seen fluttering around flowers.
- Cicadas: Known for their loud buzzing calls during the summer months.
- Orb-Weaver Spider: Spiders known for their large, circular webs, often visible in the morning dew.
- Black Widow Spider: A venomous spider that can be found in secluded areas like woodpiles.
Aquatic Wildlife:
- Beaver: Often found near rivers or streams, beavers build dams and lodges, creating wetland habitats.
- River Otter: Occasionally seen in rivers or lakes, these playful mammals are a treat to spot in the wild.
- Snapping Turtle: A large turtle often found in ponds or slow-moving water, known for its powerful jaws.
Invasive Species to Watch Out For:
- Feral Hogs: These invasive animals can cause significant damage to natural habitats and are occasionally seen in the area.
- European Starling: An invasive bird species that competes with native birds for food and nesting sites.
This wildlife diversity makes camping at Knoxville Campground in Clinton, Tennessee, an exciting opportunity for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance and follow campground guidelines to minimize human-wildlife conflicts.
Campfire Berry Cobbler
A campfire berry cobbler is a delicious and easy treat to enjoy while camping. Here’s a simple recipe you can make over the campfire:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)
- 1 cup sugar (divided)
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix (dry)
- 1 can (12 oz) lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7-Up)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Butter (optional, for extra richness)
Equipment:
- Cast iron Dutch oven or deep cast iron skillet with a lid
- Aluminum foil
- Campfire coals
Instructions:
- Prepare the Campfire:
- Get your campfire going so you have a good bed of hot coals to cook over.
- Prepare the Dutch Oven:
- Line the bottom of your Dutch oven with aluminum foil for easier cleanup (optional).
- Grease the inside of the Dutch oven with a bit of butter if you like extra richness.
- Add the Berries:
- Spread the berries evenly in the bottom of the Dutch oven.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of sugar over the berries. If you like, add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Add the Cake Mix:
- Evenly spread the dry cake mix over the berries.
- Pour the Soda:
- Slowly pour the lemon-lime soda over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible. Do not stir; the soda will combine with the cake mix as it cooks, forming a crust.
- Add Optional Butter:
- If you want a richer cobbler, dot the top with a few small pats of butter.
- Cook the Cobbler:
- Cover the Dutch oven with its lid.
- Place the Dutch oven on a bed of hot coals, and place some additional hot coals on the lid to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 30-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the berries are bubbling. Check it occasionally to avoid burning.
- Serve:
- Once done, carefully remove the Dutch oven from the coals and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the cobbler warm, straight from the Dutch oven. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you have it.
Enjoy your campfire berry cobbler as a perfect sweet treat to end a day of outdoor adventure at Knoxville Campground!
Plants You Might See While Camping at Knoxville Campground
When camping at Knoxville Campground in Clinton, Tennessee, you can expect to see a variety of native plants that thrive in the region’s woodland and mountain environments. Here are some plants you might encounter:
1. Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)
- A common evergreen tree in the area, with soft, needle-like leaves and small cones. It often grows along streams and provides dense, cool shade.
2. Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
- A beautiful evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and clusters of pink or white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
3. Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum)
- Another evergreen shrub, known for its large, leathery leaves and stunning clusters of purple or pink flowers. It’s often found in the understory of forests.
4. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
- This small tree is known for its striking pink or purple flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge.
5. Dogwood (Cornus florida)
- A popular flowering tree in the area, with white or pink blossoms in spring, followed by red berries in the fall.
6. American Holly (Ilex opaca)
- A small evergreen tree or shrub with spiny, glossy leaves and bright red berries, which are particularly noticeable in the winter.
7. Wildflowers
- Depending on the season, you might see a variety of wildflowers, such as:
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Bright yellow flowers with dark centers.
- Trillium (Trillium spp.): A spring wildflower with three-petaled flowers that can be white, pink, or red.
- Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum): A unique plant with a hooded flower that resembles a pulpit.
8. Ferns
- Various species of ferns, such as the Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), are common in the shady, moist areas of the campground.
9. Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)
- Tennessee’s state tree, known for its tall, straight trunk and distinctive tulip-shaped leaves and flowers.
10. Oak and Hickory Trees
- Several species of oak (such as White Oak, Quercus alba) and hickory trees are prevalent in the forests, providing acorns and nuts for wildlife.
These plants contribute to the rich biodiversity of the Knoxville Campground area, creating a lush and vibrant environment for campers staying at Knoxville Campground to enjoy!
Potato Pancakes Recipe
Here’s a classic recipe for delicious potato pancakes, also known as “latkes”:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Grate the Potatoes: Using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment, grate the potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, finely grated onion, beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of potato into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Form Pancakes: Take about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture in your hand and gently flatten it to form a pancake, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Carefully place it into the hot oil. Repeat with more potato mixture, leaving space between pancakes in the skillet.
- Fry the Pancakes: Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them halfway through cooking. Adjust the heat if necessary to maintain a steady sizzle without burning.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the potato pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve the potato pancakes warm, optionally with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite toppings.
Tips:
- Variations: Add grated garlic, chopped herbs (like parsley or dill), or grated cheese to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
- Keep Warm: If making a large batch, you can keep the cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven until ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or toaster oven.
Enjoy these crispy and comforting potato pancakes as a side dish or a main course, perfect for any meal of the day at Knoxville Campground!
Homemade Aloe Recipe for Sunburns
Making a homemade aloe vera gel for soothing sunburns is simple and effective. Here’s a straightforward recipe with just three simple ingredients:
Ingredients:
- Fresh aloe vera leaf (you can find these at many grocery stores or plant shops)
- Vitamin E oil (optional, for extra skin nourishment)
- Essential oils like lavender or chamomile (optional, for fragrance and additional soothing properties)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Aloe Vera Gel:
- Cut a fresh aloe vera leaf from the plant. Wash the leaf thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Extract the Gel:
- Use a sharp knife to carefully slice off the serrated edges of the leaf. Then, slice through the top layer of the leaf to expose the gel inside.
- Scoop Out the Gel:
- Use a spoon to scoop out the gel from the leaf. Collect the gel in a clean bowl.
- Optional Additions:
- If desired, add a few drops of vitamin E oil to the aloe vera gel for added skin moisturization and healing benefits. You can also add a few drops of essential oils for fragrance and extra soothing properties.
- Mix Thoroughly:
- Stir the gel and any added ingredients together until well combined.
- Store or Apply Immediately:
- Transfer the homemade aloe vera gel into a clean container with a lid. Store it in the refrigerator for a cooling effect when applied to sunburned skin.
- Apply to Sunburned Skin:
- Scoop out a small amount of the gel and gently apply it to the sunburned areas of your skin. Allow it to absorb and provide soothing relief.
- Reapply as Needed:
- Repeat application of the aloe vera gel as often as needed to soothe the sunburned skin. Keep it refrigerated between uses for freshness.
This homemade aloe vera gel is natural and gentle on the skin, providing cooling relief and aiding in the healing process of sunburns. It’s a handy remedy to have for outdoor adventures and summer days spent in the sun at Knoxville Campground!
Almond Bear Claw Recipe
Here’s a recipe for delicious almond bear claws, a pastry that combines a flaky dough with a sweet almond filling. This recipe includes instructions for making the dough and the filling from scratch. This pastry recipe can be baked ahead of time for easy grab-and-go pastries while camping!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg
For the Almond Filling:
- 1 cup almond paste
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg white
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
For Assembly:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sliced almonds for garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Heat Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and water until warm (about 110°F or warm to the touch). Do not boil.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the cold butter pieces and the egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Almond Filling:
- Blend Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the almond paste, sugar, softened butter, egg white, and almond extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Assemble the Bear Claws:
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Cut Dough: Cut the dough into 4×6-inch rectangles.
- Add Filling: Place about 1-2 tablespoons of almond filling onto one half of each rectangle, spreading it slightly.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to form a square or rectangle. Press the edges to seal.
- Shape Claws: Make 4-5 small cuts on the sealed edge of each pastry to create the “claw” effect. Gently spread the cuts apart to shape the claws.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Bear Claws:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with 2 tablespoons of water to create an egg wash. Brush the top of each pastry with the egg wash.
- Add Almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of each pastry.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the bear claws to cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips:
- Almond Paste: Ensure the almond paste is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared the night before and left to rise in the refrigerator overnight.
- Freezing: Unbaked bear claws can be frozen on a baking sheet, and then transferred to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Enjoy your homemade almond bear claws with a cup of coffee or tea at Knoxville Campground!
Family owned and operated, Kiefer Campgrounds strive to offer you the best rates for a comfortable location with outstanding service, and spotless facilities. When you stay in one of our parks, you are no longer just a happy camper, but a part of our family! We are most certain you will enjoy your stay with us. Pick your favorite location and book your spot now before it’s too late! You’ll be happy you did!
