Delight in the rich, traditional flavors of Sweden with this Swedish Coffee Braids Bread recipe, a show-stopping blend of soft, airy dough infused with fragrant cardamom and topped with a sparkling sprinkle of pearl sugar. Perfectly golden and braided to perfection, this sweet bread makes an irresistible centerpiece for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon coffee breaks. With just 20 minutes of prep time, a delicate balance of milk, butter, and yeast creates a pillowy texture, while an egg wash lends a lustrous finish. Each bite offers a hint of spice and sweetness, making it a wonderful accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage or a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or elevating everyday moments, this classic Scandinavian treat promises warmth, nostalgia, and plenty of flavor.
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Let the mixture cool to lukewarm (about 110°F).
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk-butter mixture. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add the sugar, eggs, salt, and ground cardamom to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
Gradually mix in the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning once to coat it. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough 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 inches in length.
Place the three ropes side by side on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pinch the top ends together and braid the ropes. Pinch the bottom ends together to seal.
Cover the braided dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, beat the egg for the egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the braided dough and sprinkle with pearl sugar.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Allow the bread to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!
Calories |
2837 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 99.6 g | 128% | |
| Saturated Fat | 51.9 g | 260% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 773 mg | 258% | |
| Sodium | 1498 mg | 65% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 407.9 g | 148% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.5 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.4 g | ||
| Protein | 79.2 g | 158% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.7 mcg | 29% | |
| Calcium | 469 mg | 36% | |
| Iron | 25.5 mg | 142% | |
| Potassium | 1248 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.