Swedish Cardamom Buns: A Delicious Recipe for Traditional Treats

Swedish Cardamom Buns are a delightful treat that brings a touch of Scandinavian charm to any kitchen. As I first encountered these aromatic pastries during a visit to Sweden, I was instantly captivated by their warm, inviting scent and soft, pillowy texture. The history of Swedish Cardamom Buns dates back centuries, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings, making them a beloved staple in Swedish culture.

What I adore most about these buns is their perfect balance of sweetness and spice, thanks to the fragrant cardamom that infuses each bite. The convenience of preparing these buns at home allows me to share a piece of Swedish tradition with friends and family, creating lasting memories over a warm cup of coffee. Whether you’re indulging in them for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, Swedish Cardamom Buns are sure to become a favorite in your household, just as they have in mine.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup raisins or currants (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling (about 110°F or 43°C). Remove from heat and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cardamom, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
3. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the melted unsalted butter and the two large eggs to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Pour in the yeast mixture as well.
4. Using a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer, mix the ingredients until they come together to form a sticky dough. If you’re using your hands, don’t be afraid to get a little messy!
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
6. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the perfect time to catch up on your favorite show or read a book!

Preparing the Filling

1. While the dough is rising, let’s prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. If you’re using raisins or currants, you can add them to this mixture as well.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for a size of approximately 12×18 inches.
3. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help keep the filling from spilling out when we roll it up.
4. Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Make sure to roll it evenly to ensure that the filling is distributed throughout the bun.

Shaping the Buns

1. Once you have your log, pinch the seam to seal it. Now, using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the log into 12 equal pieces. You can also use kitchen scissors for a fun twist!
2. Take each piece and twist it into a spiral shape. You can either form them into a classic knot shape or simply place them in a muffin tin for a more rustic look. If you’re going for the knot shape, take the twisted piece and loop it around itself, tucking the end underneath.
3. Place the shaped buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased muffin tin, leaving some space between each bun to allow for rising. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they puff up.

Baking the Buns

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the buns are rising. This ensures that the oven is hot and ready for baking.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Swedish Cardamom Buns are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful treat that combines warmth, spice, and a touch of sweetness. The unique flavor of cardamom elevates these buns to a whole new level, making them perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a cozy dessert. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, each bite is a comforting reminder of home and tradition. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these buns with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a truly Scandinavian experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts, a drizzle of icing, or even a filling of your choice, such as almond paste or chocolate, to make them your own. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe for Swedish Cardamom Buns and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how they turn out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media so we can celebrate your baking success together. Happy baking!

Print