Scandinavian Cardamom Bread
A rich, sweet bread lightly spiced with cardamom, perfect for any occasion and ideal for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour Make sure your flour is fresh for the best rise.
- 1/4 cup sugar This adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor balance.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast Instant yeast works too if you prefer.
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom Use high-quality spice for the best aroma.
- 1 cup milk Whole milk adds richness, but you can substitute with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1/4 cup butter Make sure it's at room temperature or slightly melted for easy incorporation.
- 2 large eggs Room temperature eggs will blend more easily into the dough.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and butter until warm (about 110°F/43°C—not hot). You should feel it warm to the touch but be able to hold your finger in it.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, yeast, and cardamom.
- Pour the warm milk mixture into your dry ingredients, then add the eggs. Mix until everything is combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. You may not need all of it—keep an eye on the texture!
- Flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch it without tearing.
Rising and Shaping
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into three equal parts and roll each part into a long rope, about 12 inches long.
- Braid the three ropes together, being careful not to pull too tight. Place on a greased baking sheet.
- Cover and let it rise again for another 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. It should sound hollow when tapped.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool before slicing. The aroma at this stage will be heavenly!
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best rise and flavor. Proper storage is crucial; keep your bread at room temperature in a bread box or wrapped in a cloth for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze for up to 3 months.