Tweaked Traditional Cardamom Bread
Experience the irresistible aroma and tender crumb of Tweaked Traditional Cardamom Bread, a modern twist on a timeless Scandinavian favorite. This slightly sweet, buttery bread is infused with the warm, aromatic flavor of ground cardamom, creating a perfect balance of comforting spices and soft texture. Highlighted by its striking braided design, this recipe combines simple ingredients like milk, eggs, and flour with a dash of pearl sugar for optional crunch and sweetness. Ideal for brunch spreads, holiday feasts, or an afternoon treat, this crowd-pleasing loaf is as beautiful as it is delicious. With step-by-step instructions for kneading and braiding, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results. Serve warm from the oven, toasted with butter, or alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a truly cozy indulgence!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 packet Active dry yeast
- 0.25 cup Warm water
- 2 pieces Large eggs
- 4.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Pearl sugar (optional)
- 1 piece Egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)
Instructions
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Remove from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar. Let the mixture cool until lukewarm.
Dissolve the yeast in warm water in a small bowl and let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk mixture, yeast mixture, and eggs until combined.
In another large bowl, combine the flour, ground cardamom, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 18 inches in length.
Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal. Tuck the ends under the loaf to secure.
Place the braided loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. Brush the mixture over the loaf. If desired, sprinkle pearl sugar over the top for added sweetness and texture.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3448 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 100.4 g | 129% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.0 g | 260% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 773 mg | 258% | |
| Sodium | 2681 mg | 117% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 556.5 g | 202% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.3 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 138.7 g | ||
| Protein | 85.8 g | 172% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.7 mcg | 29% | |
| Calcium | 494 mg | 38% | |
| Iron | 28.8 mg | 160% | |
| Potassium | 1355 mg | 29% | |
*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.
