Beautifully arranged Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) on a wooden tray, garnished with pearl sugar, surrounded by a cozy Nordic setting with a coffee cup and rustic decor.

Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar)

Swedish cardamom buns, or Kardemummabullar, are a beloved Scandinavian treat. With their soft, buttery dough infused with aromatic cardamom, these twisted delights are perfect for fika—a Swedish coffee break tradition. This recipe dives into the heart of Sweden’s baking heritage, offering a cozy and flavorful experience.

The Story Behind Kardemummabullar

Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets of Stockholm. The smell of freshly baked cardamom buns wafts from quaint bakeries, pulling you in. These buns are more than a pastry; they’re a cultural symbol of slowing down and savoring the moment.

Cardamom, the star spice, arrived in Sweden centuries ago, brought through trade routes. It quickly became a favorite, particularly in baking. Swedish families often gather around these fragrant buns during fika, cherishing moments of connection over coffee and conversation.

Recipe for Swedish Cardamom Buns

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 buns

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarm
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • â…“ cup (75g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling:

  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cardamom
  • â…“ cup (75g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Syrup:

  • ½ cup (120ml) water
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

For Garnish:

  • Crushed cardamom pods or pearl sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and ground cardamom. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Filling

  1. In a small bowl, mix sugar, cardamom, and butter until creamy.

3. Shape the Buns

  1. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12x16 inches). Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
  2. Fold the dough lengthwise, then cut it into 12 equal strips.
  3. Twist each strip into a knot and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Bake the Buns

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake the buns for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

5. Glaze and Garnish

  1. While the buns bake, prepare the syrup by boiling water and sugar until dissolved.
  2. Brush the warm buns with syrup and sprinkle with crushed cardamom or pearl sugar.

Chef’s Tips

  1. Cardamom Pods vs. Ground Cardamom: For a more intense flavor, crush cardamom pods yourself. The oils released during crushing are much more aromatic than pre-ground cardamom.
  2. Perfect Twist Technique: Twist the dough strips gently to avoid breaking. Practice makes perfect!
  3. Make Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge for a more developed flavor.
  4. Serving: Serve warm with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate fika experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I freeze Swedish cardamom buns?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the baked buns in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a freshly baked taste.

Q: What is fika, and why is it special?
A: Fika is the Swedish tradition of taking a coffee break with friends or family, often accompanied by pastries like Kardemummabullar. It’s about slowing down, connecting, and enjoying life’s little pleasures.

Q: Can I use plant-based ingredients?
A: Yes, you can substitute butter with vegan margarine and milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan version.