Delight in the warm, aromatic embrace of Finnish Cinnamon Rolls, also known as Korvapuustit—a traditional Nordic treat that embodies comfort and indulgence. These beautifully shaped buns feature a soft, pillowy dough infused with ground cardamom, giving them a subtle, fragrant sweetness that sets them apart from ordinary cinnamon rolls. Rolled with a rich filling of cinnamon-sugar butter and artfully pinched in the center to create their signature "slapped ear" shape, these tender pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Topped with a golden egg wash and optional pearl sugar for a delightful crunch, these baked treasures are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress with their unique blend of flavors and stunning presentation. Serve them fresh from the oven for a truly irresistible Finnish baking experience!
In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk (about 37°C or 98°F; lukewarm to touch). Remove from heat and stir in the dry yeast with a pinch of the granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, ground cardamom, and salt. Mix well.
Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a rough dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth, soft, and elastic. Alternatively, knead in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling: Mix the softened butter, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 40x30 cm (16x12 inches).
Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter evenly over the entire surface of the dough.
Starting from the longer edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces. To shape the traditional Korvapuustit, press each slice down in the center with a chopstick or the handle of a spoon to create a butterfly-like shape.
Place the shaped rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Brush the risen rolls with the beaten egg and sprinkle pearl sugar on top, if using.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let the Korvapuustit cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Calories |
3836 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 124.7 g | 160% | |
| Saturated Fat | 73.0 g | 365% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 676 mg | 225% | |
| Sodium | 2626 mg | 114% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 608.2 g | 221% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.9 g | 78% | |
| Total Sugars | 214.9 g | ||
| Protein | 75.5 g | 151% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.4 mcg | 32% | |
| Calcium | 590 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 26.6 mg | 148% | |
| Potassium | 1284 mg | 27% | |
*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.