Kanelbulle (Cinnamon Bun)
A classic Swedish cinnamon bun, made with cardamom-spiced dough and filled with cinnamon and sugar.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) 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.
Cinnamon buns, while having roots potentially tracing back to Roman times and earlier forms of sweet breads, gained significant popularity in Sweden in the 1920s after World War I when ingredients like wheat flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon became more readily available and affordable.
Kanelbullar hold a significant cultural position in Sweden, representing a symbol of 'fika' – a cherished Swedish tradition of taking a break to enjoy coffee or tea with a sweet treat.
Fika Culture
Kanelbullar are intrinsically linked to Swedish 'fika,' a social institution centered around coffee, conversation, and relaxation. They are a staple at coffee breaks, gatherings with friends and family, and even business meetings.
Kanelbullens Dag (Cinnamon Bun Day)
Sweden celebrates Kanelbullens Dag on October 4th. This annual celebration, started in 1999 by a trade organization, has further cemented the bun's iconic status and promotes local bakeries.
Symbol of Home
The aroma of freshly baked Kanelbullar often evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and home, making them a popular treat to bake and share with loved ones.
The Kanelbulle is characterized by a delightful combination of sweet, warm, and slightly spiced flavors, creating a comforting and aromatic treat.
The primary flavors are derived from the interplay of sweet dough, rich butter, fragrant cinnamon, and the subtle warmth of cardamom. The dough itself is enriched with butter and sugar, providing a soft and slightly chewy texture. The filling features a generous layer of butter, cinnamon, and sugar, which melts during baking to create a gooey and flavorful center. Cardamom, a key ingredient, adds a distinctive warmth and aromatic complexity that distinguishes the Kanelbulle from other cinnamon bun variations. Pearl sugar is often sprinkled on top for a subtle crunch and added sweetness.
Dough Temperature
Ensure your dough isn't too warm during the rising process. A slightly cooler environment allows for a slower, more even rise, resulting in a softer texture. Be careful not to overproof the dough.
Cardamom Quality
Use high-quality cardamom, preferably freshly ground from cardamom pods, for the most intense and aromatic flavor. Pre-ground cardamom can lose its potency quickly.
Butter Consistency
The butter used in the filling should be softened but still cool to the touch. This will help create a smooth and easily spreadable filling.
Cutting and Shaping
There are many different ways to shape a Kanelbulle from simple knots to more elaborate folds. Experiment with different techniques to find your favorite style. A sharp knife or pizza cutter ensures clean cuts.
Egg Wash
An egg wash before baking gives the buns a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish. For extra shine, mix the egg wash with a splash of milk or cream.
Explore additional Pastry dishes and restaurants
Explore PastryDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in London.
Explore LondonLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of UK.
Explore UK