This traditional Swedish saffron bun recipe is a delightful culinary journey to Scandinavia. It's an aromatic, sweet, and colorful treat that is a staple during the Christmas season in Sweden. Their unique S shape makes them a standout addition to any festive table.
Saffron threads may not be a common ingredient in many kitchens, but they are integral to this recipe. They give the buns their characteristic yellow color and unique flavor. You'll also need active dry yeast which is a common ingredient for baking breads. If not available at home, you can easily find these ingredients in a supermarket.
Ingredients for Swedish Saffron Buns
Milk: A common kitchen staple, providing the base liquid for our dough.
Sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness to the buns.
Saffron threads: Infuses the buns with a warm, distinctive flavor and a lovely golden color.
Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor.
Ground cardamom: Gives a hint of warm, spicy-sweet flavor.
Eggs: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
Sour cream: Provides a slight tang and creamy texture.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture.
Raisin: Provides a sweet, fruity contrast.
One reader, Baldwin Halstead says:
The Swedish saffron buns recipe is a delightful treat! The aroma of saffron and cardamom fills the kitchen, and the buns turn out soft and flavorful. The golden color and sweet taste make them perfect for festive occasions. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a taste of Sweden's culinary tradition.
Key Techniques for Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe
How to activate the yeast: Sprinkle the yeast over the warm saffron-infused milk and let it bubble for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure that the yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.
How to knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead it until it becomes springy, which should take about 5 minutes. Kneading helps develop the gluten in the dough, giving the buns their desired texture.
How to shape the dough into buns: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and form each piece into a ball about 2 inches wide, then roll into a cylinder about 12-14 inches long. After that, swirl the dough into an S shape, starting at one end until the middle and then the other end. This shaping technique gives the buns their characteristic appearance.
How to brush the buns: Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the dough swirls before baking. This will give the buns a beautiful golden color as they bake.
How to check for doneness: Bake the buns for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure they are fully cooked, you can insert a toothpick into the center of a bun – if it comes out clean, the buns are ready.
How To Make Swedish Saffron Buns
These goodies are saffron-flavored sweet buns with a dried fruit on top that are just perfect to eat with a nice hot cup of coffee!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupmilk
- ½cupsugar,plus 1 tbsp, divided
- 1tspsaffron thread
- ¼ozactive dry yeast
- 4½cupsall-purpose flour
- 1tspkosher salt
- 1tspground cardamom
- 3large eggs,divided
- ¼cupsour cream
- 6tbspunsalted butter,softened
- raisin,or chocolate chips
Instructions
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In a small saucepan, combine the milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and the saffron threads.
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Heat over medium-low heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
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Once the milk is steaming, remove from the heat and let cool to 110 degrees F.
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Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let bubble, for about 5 minutes.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and cardamom.
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Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the milk, 2 eggs, sour cream, and butter.
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Stir to combine, then, once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to incorporate fully.
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Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead until the dough is springy, about 5 minutes.
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Place the dough in a large bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Punch down the dough and flip onto a clean surface.
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Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
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Form each piece into a ball about 2 inches (5 cm) wide, then roll into a cylinder about 12-14 inches (30 cm) long
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Swirl the dough into a S shape starting at one end until the middle and then the other end.
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Transfer the dough to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 30 minutes, until doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
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Beat the remaining egg and brush over the dough swirls. Place a single raisin or chocolate chip in the center of the swirls on each end.
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Bake the buns for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Nutrition
- Calories: 355.11kcal
- Fat: 10.89g
- Saturated Fat: 6.06g
- Trans Fat: 0.28g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.91g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.88g
- Carbohydrates: 54.85g
- Fiber: 1.77g
- Sugar: 11.59g
- Protein: 8.97g
- Cholesterol: 79.55mg
- Sodium: 225.30mg
- Calcium: 54.05mg
- Potassium: 133.70mg
- Iron: 2.95mg
- Vitamin A: 103.64µg
- Vitamin C: 0.15mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe
When kneading the dough, it's important to use the heel of your hand to push and stretch the dough, then fold it back onto itself. This process helps to develop the gluten in the flour, which gives the buns their structure and chewy texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much as it can make the buns dry. The dough should be smooth and elastic when it's ready.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Swedish Saffron Buns
Prep ahead: Make the saffron milk and dough the night before and refrigerate. This will save time on the day of baking.
Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough, saving time and effort.
Organize ingredients: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Set up a baking station: Preparing a dedicated baking station with all tools and ingredients laid out will make the process more efficient.
Work in batches: If making a large batch, work in stages to divide and shape the dough, allowing for better control and consistency.
Preheat oven early: Preheat the oven while the dough is rising to save time and ensure it's ready for baking.
Substitute Ingredients For Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe
- saffron thread - Substitute with turmeric: Turmeric can provide a similar golden color and a mild earthy flavor, although it lacks the distinct taste of saffron.
- active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used as a substitute, but it may require less proofing time compared to active dry yeast.
Presenting Swedish Saffron Buns in Style
- Elevate the dough shaping: Instead of simply rolling the dough into a traditional shape, consider getting creative with the shaping. You can create intricate designs or patterns to add visual interest and showcase your attention to detail.
- Incorporate edible gold leaf or dust: Adding a touch of edible gold leaf or dust to the saffron buns can instantly elevate the presentation, giving them a luxurious and elegant appearance that is sure to impress the judges.
- Utilize a unique serving platter: Choose a stunning and unique serving platter that complements the saffron buns. Opt for a piece that adds a touch of sophistication and style to the overall presentation.
- Garnish with fresh edible flowers: Enhance the visual appeal of the saffron buns by delicately garnishing them with fresh edible flowers. This adds a pop of color and a touch of natural beauty to the dish.
- Create a visually appealing arrangement: Pay attention to the arrangement of the saffron buns on the serving platter. Consider creating a visually appealing layout that showcases the buns in an artistic and eye-catching manner.
- Use natural lighting to highlight the dish: When presenting the saffron buns to the judges, ensure that the dish is positioned in an area with ample natural light. This will allow the vibrant colors of the buns to shine and create a stunning visual impact.
Essential Tools for Making Swedish Saffron Buns
- Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for boiling, stewing, or making sauces.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking.
- Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap, also known as cling film, is a thin plastic film commonly used for covering and wrapping food to keep it fresh.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a deep bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients for recipes.
- Pastry brush: A pastry brush is a kitchen tool with bristles used for applying egg wash, butter, or glazes to pastries and baked goods.
- Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food by surrounding it with dry heat.
Storing and Freezing Swedish Saffron Buns
- Allow the swedish saffron buns to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store, place the cooled buns in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the buns:
- Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped buns in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw frozen swedish saffron buns:
- Remove the desired number of buns from the freezer.
- Unwrap and place them on a plate or wire rack at room temperature.
- Allow the buns to thaw for about 1-2 hours, or until they reach room temperature.
- To reheat thawed or room temperature buns:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the buns on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave individual buns for 15-20 seconds, or until warm.
How To Reheat Leftover Swedish Saffron Buns
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover swedish saffron buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method will help restore the buns' original texture and flavor.
For a quicker reheating option, use your microwave. Place the saffron buns on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds. If the buns are not heated through, continue microwaving in 5-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the buns to become tough or rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your swedish saffron buns. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the buns on the wire rack. Toast for 3-4 minutes, or until they are heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method is perfect for achieving a balance between a soft interior and a crispy crust.
For a unique twist, try slicing your leftover saffron buns in half and toasting them in a skillet or on a griddle. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet over medium heat, then place the bun halves cut-side down. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the cut sides are golden brown and crispy. This method adds a delightful texture contrast and a subtle buttery flavor to the reheated buns.
If you want to maintain the soft, fluffy texture of your swedish saffron buns, try steaming them. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the buns in a steamer basket above the water, ensuring they don't touch the water directly. Cover the pot and steam the buns for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through. This gentle reheating method will keep the buns moist and soft.
Interesting Fact About Swedish Saffron Buns
The saffron buns are a traditional Swedish pastry enjoyed during the Advent season. They are often served on St. Lucia's Day, a festival of lights in Sweden. The saffron used in the buns not only gives them a vibrant yellow color but also adds a unique and aromatic flavor to the dough. These buns are a beloved part of Swedish holiday traditions and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or mulled wine.
Is Making Swedish Saffron Buns at Home Cost-Effective?
This Swedish saffron buns recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The saffron threads and cardamom might be pricier, but the basic ingredients are affordable. The buns are a delightful treat, earning a solid 9/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, factoring in the price of saffron and cardamom.
Are Swedish Saffron Buns Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Swedish saffron buns recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, butter, and refined flour, which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases when consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe lacks whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which are essential components of a balanced diet.
However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Reduce the amount of sugar by 25-50% to lower the overall calorie count and decrease the risk of obesity and diabetes
- Use low-fat milk and sour cream to cut down on saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease
- Incorporate more dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, to add natural sweetness and boost the nutrient profile
- Experiment with alternative sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, which may provide additional health benefits compared to refined sugar
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delightful taste of Swedish saffron buns while also supporting your overall health and well-being. Remember, moderation is key, and even with healthier modifications, these buns should still be considered an occasional treat rather than an everyday staple in your diet.
Editor's Opinion on Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe
This Swedish saffron buns recipe is a delightful blend of aromatic saffron, cardamom, and sweet raisins, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The dough is beautifully soft and fluffy, and the saffron adds a lovely golden hue. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The final result is a batch of beautifully golden, fragrant buns that are perfect for any occasion. These saffron buns are a wonderful addition to any holiday table or a delightful treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
Enhance Your Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe:
This recipe for Swedish saffron buns is a delightful and authentic representation of traditional Swedish baking. The use of saffron threads infuses the buns with a unique and aromatic flavor, while the addition of cardamom adds a warm and spicy note. The careful attention to detail in the instructions ensures that the buns turn out soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden brown. With the combination of sour cream and butter, these buns promise a rich and indulgent texture. Trust in this recipe to bring the flavors of Sweden into your home kitchen.
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