As I stood in my kitchen, the warm, enticing scent of freshly ground cardamom danced in the air, whisking me away to a cozy café in Sweden. That’s when I decided it was time to bake the Best Kardemummabullar, or Swedish Cardamom Buns, which are not just a delightful breakfast but also a charming dessert. These buns are truly a labor of love, offering a buttery richness complemented by aromatic cardamom that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Best of all, they’re quick to whip up and perfect for sharing—ideal for those relaxed weekend brunches or a sweet moment with a cup of coffee. Curious how to create these fluffy wonders? Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of Sweden to your kitchen!
Why Are Swedish Cardamom Buns So Special?
Irresistible Aroma: The intoxicating scent of freshly ground cardamom fills your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist the urge to indulge in these scrumptious buns.
Delightfully Soft: Each bite offers a soft, fluffy texture that perfectly balances the buttery richness and sweet spices.
Versatile Treat: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, these kardemummabullar are a hit any time of day.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers will feel confident making these at home. Plus, you can whip up a batch in under two hours!
Cultural Experience: Enjoy a taste of Swedish tradition with each bite, making every occasion feel special—perfect for your next fika!
Swedish Cardamom Buns Ingredients
-
For the Filling
-
Cardamom seeds – Freshly ground seeds will ensure the best flavor for your Swedish cardamom buns.
-
Butter (room temperature) – Essential for richness; you can use margarine if you’re out of butter.
-
Brown sugar – Light brown sugar adds a lovely depth and moisture to the filling.
-
Granulated sugar – This sweetens both the dough and topping effectively.
-
Vanilla sugar – Adds an extra layer of sweetness; you can replace it with vanilla extract if needed.
-
For the Dough
-
Milk (room temperature) – Hydrates the dough and helps activate the yeast; any kind of milk will work.
-
Fresh yeast (or instant yeast) – The leavening agent for fluffy buns; if using instant yeast, 2 teaspoons will suffice.
-
Cinnamon – Complements the cardamom flavor beautifully in the dough.
-
All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for your buns; ensure it’s enough to keep the dough from being sticky.
-
Salt – A small amount enhances the overall flavor of your buns.
-
For Decoration
-
Decoration Butter – Brush the tops after baking for added shine and a delicious buttery flavor.
-
Additional cardamom seeds (for decoration) – Mixed with sugar to make a sweet topping that excites the taste buds.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for The Best Kardemummabullar (Swedish Cardamom Buns)
Step 1: Prepare the Cardamom Filling
Begin by grinding fresh cardamom seeds using a mortar and pestle until they form a fine powder. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla sugar, and the ground cardamom until smooth. This aromatic filling will be key to your Swedish cardamom buns, so blend well and set aside while you move on to the dough.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk over low heat until it reaches room temperature, then dissolve the fresh yeast in it. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and half of the all-purpose flour. Gradually incorporate the milk mixture, mixing until smooth. Slowly add the remaining flour and salt until a cohesive dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until it’s elastic and smooth.
Step 3: Knead in the Butter
With the dough formed, introduce the room-temperature butter in chunks. Knead the dough for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the butter to fully integrate into the mixture. The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky. Once well-kneaded, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rest for about 30 minutes, letting it rise until doubled in size.
Step 4: Roll and Shape
Flour your work surface and roll out the rested dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Evenly spread the prepared cardamom filling across the surface, making sure to reach edges. Carefully fold the dough in half and roll it out again into a rectangle. Use a sharp knife to cut thin strips, then twist each strip and tie them into knots, creating the signature shape of your Swedish cardamom buns.
Step 5: First Rise
Arrange the twisted buns on lined baking sheets, leaving enough space between each one to allow for expansion. Cover the trays with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen cloth and let them rise in a warm spot for 1 to 3 hours. You’re looking for the buns to approximately double in size, becoming puffy and airy for the best texture.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Once the buns have risen nicely, brush each one with an egg wash for a golden finish. Place them in the oven and bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Step 7: Decorate
While the buns are still warm, melt some butter in a small pan. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the tops of the buns with the melted butter. Then, dip each bun into a mixture of granulated sugar and a touch of ground cardamom for an aromatic and sweet topping. This final touch enhances the flavors and gives your Swedish cardamom buns a lovely finish.
Swedish Cardamom Buns Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to enhance or tweak these delicious Swedish cardamom buns to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives, like coconut oil and almond milk, for a vegan treat.
- Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier texture and additional fiber.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the filling for a delightful crunch.
- Zesty Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the filling for a bright and fresh flavor that beautifully contrasts with cardamom.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to create a similar texture while making these buns gluten-free.
- Cardamom-Free: If you want a different flavor, replace cardamom with cinnamon or a mix of spices like nutmeg and allspice for a unique twist.
- Chocolatey Indulgence: Add chocolate chips or chunks to the filling for a sweet, gooey surprise that elevates the buns to dessert perfection.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a pleasant heat alongside the sweetness.
These variations are just the beginning! Mixing and matching flavors can lead to endless possibilities, so let your creativity flow. Don’t forget to check out how to make a cozy snack to accompany your buns or explore more delicious breakfast ideas to complement this delightful recipe!
How to Store and Freeze Swedish Cardamom Buns
Airtight Container: Place fully cooled Swedish cardamom buns in an airtight container to maintain their softness. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep the buns in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat your buns in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to restore their fluffy texture and warmth.
Tips for the Best Kardemummabullar
-
Use Fresh Cardamom: Always opt for freshly ground cardamom seeds to ensure a vibrant aroma and flavor in your Swedish cardamom buns.
-
Butter Timing: Add the room-temperature butter after initially kneading the dough. This yields a softer texture, although it may seem messy at first.
-
Proper Kneading: Knead your dough just enough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes total. Avoid over-kneading, which can lead to dense buns.
-
Watch the Rise: Allow the buns to rise until they’ve doubled in size. This could take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your kitchen’s warmth.
-
Baking Vigilance: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Remove the buns as soon as they turn golden brown to ensure they remain fluffy and moist.
-
Cool Before Storing: After baking, let the buns cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These Swedish Cardamom Buns are perfect for meal prep, making busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the dough and shape the buns up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, let the shaped buns rise for about 1-3 hours, then refrigerate them covered with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to come to room temperature and rise for an additional 30 minutes before preheating the oven. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked buns for up to 3 days; just ensure they are tightly wrapped. Bake straight from the freezer, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can still enjoy fresh, fluffy kardemummabullar with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
What to Serve with Kardemummabullar
The perfect accompaniments will elevate your Swedish cardamom buns to a blissful experience that delights the senses.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee beautifully complement the warm spices in the buns, making each bite even more delightful.
- Chai Latte: A creamy chai latte enhances the aromatic cardamom, creating a cozy pairing for your afternoon treat.
- Citrus Salad: Bright, zesty oranges and grapefruits add a refreshing contrast to the sweet and buttery buns, balancing flavors wonderfully.
- Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy ice cream provides a delightful juxtaposition to the warm, spiced buns, creating a luxurious dessert experience.
- Honey Butter: A dollop of honey butter atop the buns adds a sweet, smooth richness that takes the flavor profile to the next level.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, can provide a light, refreshing complement to the gentle sweetness of the kardemummabullar.
- Dark Chocolate: For an indulgent twist, the richness of dark chocolate paired with the cardamom can create a decadent flavor explosion.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can be a delightful savory contrast to the sweet, fluffy buns, making it perfect for brunch settings.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing glass of sparkling water can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall enjoyment of these delicious sweets.
- Fruit Compote: Top a bun with a warm fruit compote for an added layer of flavor that complements the cardamom beautifully.
Kardemummabullar (Swedish Cardamom Buns) Recipe FAQs
What kind of cardamom should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh cardamom seeds are key to unlocking the full aromatic potential of your kardemummabullar. I recommend grinding them just before use, as this releases essential oils that enhance flavor. Pre-ground cardamom can be used in a pinch, but the taste won’t be as vibrant.
How should I store leftover Swedish cardamom buns?
To keep your buns deliciously soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place the buns in the refrigerator for about 5 days, ensuring they are well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Swedish cardamom buns for later?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or an airtight container. This helps protect them from freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10 minutes.
Why didn’t my buns rise properly?
Very frustrating! A common reason for inadequate rising is using yeast that is expired or not activating properly. Ensure your yeast is fresh and dissolve it in warm milk (not hot) during dough preparation. If the dough feels too sticky or dry, adjust the flour or moisture levels gradually during kneading.
Can I make these buns allergen-friendly?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use dairy-free butter and milk to accommodate lactose intolerance. For sugar, feel free to use alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia if you want to cut down on refined sugars.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough seems overly sticky during the kneading process, no worries! Sprinkle in small amounts of flour while kneading until the dough reaches a soft but manageable consistency. Just be careful not to overadd, as too much flour can lead to dense buns. Aim for a dough that is slightly tacky, but cleanly pulls away from your hands and the bowl.
Deliciously Soft Swedish Cardamom Buns for Your Breakfast Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Cardamom Filling by grinding cardamom seeds and creaming with butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla sugar.
- Make the Dough by warming milk and dissolving yeast, then mixing in sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and flour.
- Knead in the Butter by adding room-temperature butter and knead until integrated.
- Roll and Shape the dough into a rectangle, spread filling, fold, and twist into knots.
- First Rise the buns on baking sheets covered with plastic wrap for 1 to 3 hours.
- Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Decorate by brushing with melted butter and dipping in sugar and cardamom mixture.
Leave a Reply