Kanelbullar: Authentic Swedish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Kanelbullar are delicious Swedish cinnamon buns that delight palates around the world. Simple to make and full of flavor, this authentic recipe will transport you straight to a bakery in Sweden. Learn how to make these treats and impress your family and friends.

What Are Kanelbullar?

Kanelbullar, or Swedish cinnamon buns, are a delicious treat that has won the hearts of people around the world. These aromatic, soft cinnamon rolls are perfect for a special breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Made with a rich, buttery dough, they are rolled up with a generous cinnamon-sugar filling, resulting in an irresistible sweet with a tempting aroma.

Ingredients

To make authentic kanelbullar, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk (500 ml)

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (100 g / 3.5 oz)

• 1 3/4 oz fresh yeast or 4 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast (50 g fresh / 14 g dry)

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons ground cardamom

• About 6 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (800 g)

• For the filling:

• 7 tablespoons softened butter (100 g / 3.5 oz)

• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (150 g)

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

• For the topping:

• 1 beaten egg

• Pearl sugar (optional)

Making the Dough

To start making kanelbullar, follow these simple steps:

Warming the milk: In a saucepan, warm the milk until lukewarm but not boiling. Remove from the heat and melt the butter in the warm milk.

Preparing the yeast: Add the yeast to the milk and stir until completely dissolved. Let rest for 10 minutes until lightly foamy.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the sugar, salt, cardamom and half of the flour. Add the milk-and-yeast mixture gradually, stirring well after each addition. Keep adding the remaining flour until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.

Kneading the Dough

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Making the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar and cinnamon into a smooth paste. Set aside.

Shaping the Kanelbullar

Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll one part of the dough into a rectangle about 12×16 inches (30×40 cm). Spread half of the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.

Roll up the dough like a jelly roll, starting from one of the long sides. Cut the log into slices about 3/4 inch thick (2 cm). Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them so they can grow while baking.

Second Rise

Cover the shaped kanelbullar with a clean cloth and let rest for 30 more minutes.

Baking the Kanelbullar

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the kanelbullar with the beaten egg and, if you like, sprinkle with pearl sugar. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden.

Tips for Perfect Kanelbullar

• Use high-quality ingredients to guarantee the best flavor.
• Do not skimp on the cardamom, as it is essential for the authentic kanelbullar flavor.
• Make sure the dough is kneaded properly for a soft, elastic texture.

Recipe Variations

While the traditional kanelbullar recipe is delicious on its own, you can try a few variations to change up the flavors:

• Adding dried fruit: Fold raisins or cranberries into the filling for a fruity touch.
• Chocolate filling: Replace the brown sugar and cinnamon with a mixture of sugar and cocoa powder.

Why Make Kanelbullar at Home?

There are many advantages to making kanelbullar at home:

• Ingredient quality: You control everything that goes into the recipe.
• Unmatched aroma: Nothing compares to the smell of freshly baked kanelbullar spreading through your home.
• Baking experience: Making kanelbullar can be a fun and rewarding activity.

Storing Your Kanelbullar

To keep your kanelbullar fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To store them longer, freeze for up to one month and warm in the oven before serving.

Serving and Enjoying

Kanelbullar are perfect served with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to brunches and parties, winning over everyone present.

Serve them warm or at room temperature, and enjoy every bite of this classic Swedish sweet.

Fun Facts About Kanelbullar

Here are a few interesting facts about kanelbullar:

• Kanelbullar are a key part of Swedish fika culture, the socially cherished coffee break.
• Sweden even has a National Kanelbullar Day, celebrated on October 4.
• Kanelbullar have spread to other Nordic countries, becoming a common treat in places like Denmark and Finland.

Related Recipes

To round out your kanelbullar experience, you can try other Swedish recipes, such as:

• Semlor: Sweet buns filled with cream and almonds.
• Prinsesstårta: A princess cake with marzipan, cream and jam.