Kanelbullar (Swedish Cinnamon Rolls)

Swedish Spice Swirls: Perfectly Fluffy Kanelbullar!

Prep and cook time: 3 to 3.5 hrs

Difficulty: Medium

Servings: 12 buns

Ingredients:

For the Dough

• 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, but traditional for Swedish Kanelbullar)

• 1 large egg

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon ground cardamom (optional)

For the Topping

• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

• 2 tablespoons pearl sugar (optional, for a traditional finish)

Instructions:

1. Put warm milk in a saucepan until lukewarm, then stir in butter, sugar, and salt until melted. Remove from heat, sprinkle yeast over the mixture, and let sit for 5-10 minutes.

2. In a large bowl, combine flour and cardamom, then add the milk-yeast mixture and egg. Stir until dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5-8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom (if using). Stir until it forms a smooth, spreadable paste.

4. Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling, leaving a border. Roll the dough tightly from one edge and slice into 12 pieces. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart, and arrange as desired.

4. Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, or until puffed up.

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen rolls with the beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar (if using). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

6. Let the Kanelbullar cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, fragrant Swedish cinnamon rolls with coffee or tea!

Serve your Kanelbullar with a nice cup of Swedish coffee, also known as fika - perfect for a cozy treat or when you want to impress guests with a Swedish classics!