Swedish Cardamom Braid
Submitted by okysmoky
Swedish cardamom-scented sweet bread braided into a golden loaf studded with raisins. A Scandinavian classic with aromatic spice and tender crumb, perfect for coffee breaks or holiday mornings.
YIELD
12 servingsPREP
1 hrsCOOK
35 minREADY
2 hrsThis traditional Swedish braid fills your kitchen with the exotic fragrance of cardamom, the signature spice of Scandinavian baking.
The enriched yeast dough is tender from milk and oil, studded with plump raisins, then braided into an impressive loaf that looks bakery-perfect.
Serve it warm with butter and strong coffee for an authentic Swedish fika experience.
Pro Tips
- Fresh cardamom makes all the difference; grind whole pods yourself if possible
- Braid the dough loosely so it has room to expand during the second rise
- An egg wash isn’t listed but brushing with milk before baking gives a beautiful sheen
- This bread freezes well; slice and toast from frozen for quick breakfasts
Ingredients
Directions
Combine the yeast and the lukewarm water. Let stand until dissolved. Pour the hot milk over the sugar to dissolve it. Pour the hot milk over the sugar to dissolve it. Add the salt and vegetable oil. Cool.
Stir in the yeast mixture, egg, 3 cups of the flour and the cardamom into the sugar mixture. Add the raisins and extra flour. Beat until smooth. Turn the dough onto a lightly-floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic.
Transfer to a lightly-oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Punch down the dough and transfer to a lightly-floured surface. Divide into thirds. Roll each part into a 10-inch-long strand. Braid loosely. Place on a lightly-oiled baking sheet. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Bake in a 350-degree oven for 30 to 35 minutes.
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