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Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar) Recipe

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4.4 from 46 reviews

  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 8 mins
  • Yield: 12 buns
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Soft, lightly sweet Swedish-style cinnamon buns spiced with cardamom and topped with pearl sugar. These Kanelbullar are less gooey than American cinnamon rolls, offering an elegantly flavored treat perfect for fika or any cozy gathering.

Ingredients

Dough:

  • 3 ¼ cups flour
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 tsp yeast
  • 1 tsp cardamom
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 4 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 egg

Filling:

  • 4 tbsp softened butter
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon

Topping:

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Pearl sugar, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it rest for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cardamom. Add the melted butter, egg, and the activated yeast mixture. Knead the dough thoroughly until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  3. Roll and fill the dough: Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
  4. Shape the buns: Fold the dough to enclose the filling and cut it into strips. Twist each strip to form spiral shapes and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
  5. Second rise: Cover the buns with a clean towel and allow them to rise again for 30 minutes until they puff up slightly.
  6. Prepare for baking: Brush each bun generously with the egg wash to give them a golden color. Sprinkle pearl sugar on top for a beautiful, authentic finish.
  7. Bake the buns: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 15 to 18 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Cool and serve: Remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with coffee or tea.

Notes

  • The buns are less sweet than typical American cinnamon rolls, offering a more delicate flavor.
  • Cardamom is essential for achieving the authentic Swedish taste in Kanelbullar.
  • These buns freeze well—simply reheat gently to enjoy freshly baked flavor.
  • Pearl sugar can be found at specialty stores or online and adds a characteristic crunch on top.
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 18 mins
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Pastry
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Swedish, Scandinavian

Find it online: https://cookingmomy.com/swedish-cinnamon-buns-kanelbullar-recipe/