During the festive season in Norway, nothing quite sets the mood for Christmas like the delightful aroma of freshly baked Kanelboller Cinnamon Buns wafting through the house. These traditional Norwegian treats are a staple during the holiday season, perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or a steaming mug of coffee by the fireplace. Not only do they taste heavenly, but they also add a touch of warmth and coziness to your home. Let’s dive into making these delectable Kanelboller Cinnamon Buns in your own kitchen!
Title: Kanelboller Cinnamon Buns
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/3 cup of sugar
– 2 1/4 tsp of dry yeast
– 3 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp of salt
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp of ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 2 tbsp of ground cinnamon
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Pearl sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the milk in a small saucepan over low heat until it reaches a lukewarm temperature. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the warm milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the softened butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the cardamom and the yeast mixture, then mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Brush the dough with the beaten egg, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the surface.
6. Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice the log into about 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife. Place the slices cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bun.
7. Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes, or until slightly puffy. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar if desired.
8. Bake the Kanelboller Cinnamon Buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy these warm and flavorful Kanelboller Cinnamon Buns with loved ones during the holiday season or any time you crave a delicious, homemade treat. The combination of sweet cinnamon and cardamom spices will surely bring joy and comfort to your home, making every bite a taste of Norwegian Christmas tradition. Happy baking!