Finnish Cardamom Bread
Experience the cozy, aromatic allure of Finnish Cardamom Bread, a traditional Nordic treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This sweet, braided bread is infused with the warm, floral spice of cardamom, creating a unique flavor that sets it apart from ordinary loaves. With its soft, pillowy texture and golden crust brushed with a shiny egg wash, this bread is perfect for breakfast, coffee breaks, or holiday celebrations. Topped with a sprinkle of pearl sugar for extra flair, it pairs wonderfully with butter, jam, or even a steaming cup of coffee. This recipe walks you through the steps of creating a stunning braided loaf, whether you’re a master baker or a beginner eager to learn. Discover the joy of baking this timeless Scandinavian classic in your own kitchen!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
- 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 whole Large eggs
- 4.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Ground cardamom
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 1 whole Egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons Pearl sugar or coarse sugar (optional for topping)
Instructions
Warm the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches about 110°F (43°C). Remove from heat and stir in the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs until combined.
In another bowl, mix the flour, ground cardamom, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 16-18 inches in length. Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal, and tuck the ends under the loaf.
Transfer the braided loaf to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat an egg with a tablespoon of water, and brush the egg wash over the loaf. Sprinkle with pearl sugar or coarse sugar, if desired.
Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reads 190°F (88°C). If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3240 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 76.3 g | 98% | |
| Saturated Fat | 38.0 g | 190% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 711 mg | 237% | |
| Sodium | 1496 mg | 65% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 555.3 g | 202% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.7 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 138.8 g | ||
| Protein | 85.4 g | 171% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.7 mcg | 29% | |
| Calcium | 480 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 28.5 mg | 158% | |
| Potassium | 1329 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
