Swedish Kanelbullar: The Perfect Cinnamon Buns from Sweden

Swedish Kanelbullar: The Perfect Cinnamon Buns from Sweden
The Story Behind Swedish Kanelbullar
Kanelbullar, or Swedish cinnamon buns, are a beloved treat in Sweden and have become popular around the world. These delicious, spiced rolls are typically enjoyed during "fika," a Swedish tradition of taking a break with coffee and pastries. Unlike their American counterparts, Swedish cinnamon buns are less sweet and often flavored with cardamom, giving them a unique and irresistible taste.
Kanelbullar are more than just a snack; they are a symbol of Swedish hospitality and culture. Whether served at a family gathering, a café, or simply at home, these buns bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. The process of making Kanelbullar is a cherished ritual in many Swedish households, especially during the cooler months when the smell of cinnamon and cardamom fills the air.
This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions that guide you through the process of making these delightful buns. Whether you're new to baking or a seasoned pro, you'll find that making Kanelbullar is both fun and rewarding.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup whole milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
For the Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Topping:
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Pearl sugar (or coarse sugar) for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and ground cardamom. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling and Shape the Buns
1. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This will be the delicious cinnamon filling for your buns.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the dough, making sure to cover the entire surface.
4. Roll and Slice: Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the slices cut-side up in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Let the Buns Rise and Bake
1. Second Rise: Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up slightly.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush the tops of the buns with the beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar. The egg wash will give the buns a beautiful golden color, while the sugar adds a delightful crunch.
4. Bake: Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The smell of cinnamon and cardamom will fill your kitchen as they bake!
Step 4: Serve Your Kanelbullar
1. Cool Slightly: Let the buns cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. They are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven.
2. Serve with Coffee: Kanelbullar are traditionally served with a cup of strong coffee or tea, making them perfect for fika. The combination of warm, spiced buns and hot coffee is simply irresistible.
Wine and Beverage Pairing
While Kanelbullar are traditionally enjoyed with coffee, they also pair beautifully with a light, sweet dessert wine like a Moscato d'Asti. The wine's sweetness complements the cinnamon and sugar, making for a delightful dessert pairing. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving these buns with spiced apple cider or hot chocolate.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 250 kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Final Tips and Shortcuts
Make Ahead: The dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling out and filling.