Finnish Cardamom Bread

Experience the cozy, aromatic allure of Finnish Cardamom Bread, a traditional Nordic treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This sweet, braided bread is infused with the warm, floral spice of cardamom, creating a unique flavor that sets it apart from ordinary loaves. With its soft, pillowy texture and golden crust brushed with a shiny egg wash, this bread is perfect for breakfast, coffee breaks, or holiday celebrations. Topped with a sprinkle of pearl sugar for extra flair, it pairs wonderfully with butter, jam, or even a steaming cup of coffee. This recipe walks you through the steps of creating a stunning braided loaf, whether you’re a master baker or a beginner eager to learn. Discover the joy of baking this timeless Scandinavian classic in your own kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 1 cup Whole milk
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 whole Large eggs
• 4.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon Ground cardamom
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 whole Egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons Pearl sugar or coarse sugar (optional for topping)

Directions

Step 1

Warm the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches about 110°F (43°C). Remove from heat and stir in the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2

In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs until combined.

Step 3

In another bowl, mix the flour, ground cardamom, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a dough forms.

Step 4

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 16-18 inches in length. Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal, and tuck the ends under the loaf.

Step 7

Transfer the braided loaf to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.

Step 8

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat an egg with a tablespoon of water, and brush the egg wash over the loaf. Sprinkle with pearl sugar or coarse sugar, if desired.

Step 9

Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reads 190°F (88°C). If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 10

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1127.3 grams (1127.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3240

Total Fat 76.30g	98%
Saturated Fat 38.00g	190%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.30g
Cholesterol 711mg	237%
Sodium 1496mg	65%
Total Carbohydrate 555.30g	202%
Dietary Fiber 16.70g	60%
Total Sugars 138.80g
Protein 85.40g	171%

Vitamin D 228IU	1142%
Calcium 480mg	37%
Iron 29mg	158%
Potassium 1329mg	28%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.1%

Protein: 10.5%

Carbs: 68.4%