During the festive season in Denmark, the aroma of warm spices and sweet treats fill the air, especially when it comes to baking. One beloved traditional Danish Christmas treat is the Vaniljeboller Vanilla Buns. These delightful buns are a perfect combination of buttery pastry and fragrant vanilla, making them a popular choice for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or simply as a delightful indulgence.
Vaniljeboller Vanilla Buns
Ingredients:
For the dough:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg
For the vanilla filling:
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the vanilla glaze:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and foamy.
2. Add the melted butter, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract to create the vanilla filling.
8. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
9. Spread the vanilla filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
11. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
12. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. While the buns are baking, prepare the vanilla glaze by whisking together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
14. Once the buns are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
15. Drizzle the warm buns with the vanilla glaze, allowing it to drip down the sides.
16. Serve the Vaniljeboller Vanilla Buns warm with a cup of hot cocoa or a steaming mug of coffee for a cozy Christmas treat that everyone will love.
Vaniljeboller Vanilla Buns are not only a delicious addition to your holiday table, but they also make a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family. So, why not bring a taste of Denmark to your Christmas celebrations this year with these irresistible vanilla buns? Enjoy the process of baking and savoring these delightful treats that are sure to spread joy and warmth during the festive season.
