Description
Swedish cardamom buns, or Kardemummabullar, are a beloved pastry in Sweden. These buns are made with a soft yeast dough, flavored generously with cardamom—a spice that gives them a distinct warmth and depth. Traditionally, these buns are a part of the Swedish fika tradition, where coffee or tea is enjoyed along with pastries. The buns are often shaped in a knot-like fashion and are known for their light, fluffy texture and aromatic flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups whole milk, lukewarm
- 2 packets instant yeast (about 4½ tsp)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 5¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ tbsp ground cardamom
- ¾ cup brown sugar
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Make the Dough:
- Warm milk until just lukewarm—not hot.
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine milk, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add flour gradually while mixing on low speed.
- Add melted butter and knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise for 45–60 minutes until doubled.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix softened butter, cardamom, and brown sugar until creamy.
3. Shape the Buns:
- Roll dough into a rectangle (about 14×18 inches).
- Spread filling over half the dough, then fold the other half over.
- Roll slightly to flatten, then cut into 12 strips.
- Slice each strip lengthwise almost to the top, then twist both halves.
- Coil into a bun shape and tuck the end underneath.
4. Second Rise:
- Place buns on parchment-lined trays.
- Cover and let rise for 45–60 minutes.
5. Bake:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Bake buns for 12–15 minutes until golden.
6. Glaze:
- Simmer water and sugar until dissolved, then stir in vanilla.
- Brush warm buns with glaze for shine and sweetness.
Notes
Swedish Cardamom Buns are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they’re soft, fluffy, and fragrant. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an authentic fika experience. You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze them to keep their freshness longer.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 1.5–2 hours rising)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Sweet Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: ~250
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Kardemummabullar, Swedish buns, cardamom buns, Swedish fika buns