Christmas in Denmark is a time of festive cheer, cozy gatherings, and delightful aromas wafting from kitchens as families come together to bake traditional treats. One such beloved recipe is Safranboller, also known as Saffron Buns. These golden delights are infused with the warm, exotic flavor of saffron, a spice that adds a touch of luxury to any occasion. Perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or sharing with loved ones during the holiday season, these buttery buns are sure to become a staple in your Christmas baking repertoire.
Safranboller Saffron Buns
Ingredients:
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
– 1 tablespoon hot milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Pearl sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Begin by crushing the saffron threads using a mortar and pestle until they form a fine powder. Alternatively, you can place the saffron threads in a small bowl and pour the hot milk over them, allowing them to soak and release their flavor.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the saffron-infused milk, buttermilk, and active dry yeast to the butter mixture, stirring to combine.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean dish towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape each portion into a ball or desired shape.
8. Place the shaped buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for rising. Cover the buns with a clean dish towel and let them rest for an additional 30 minutes.
9. Brush the tops of the buns with beaten egg wash and sprinkle with pearl sugar for a decorative touch, if desired.
10. Bake the Safranboller in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the buns from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these aromatic, buttery Safranboller with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy Christmas treat.
Safranboller Saffron Buns are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, bringing a touch of Danish warmth and tradition to your table. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or saved for later, these golden buns are sure to become a cherished part of your festive baking rituals. Gather your loved ones, put on some holiday music, and savor the taste of Christmas with these fragrant, flavorful treats. Merry baking!
