Overview.

There’s something special about the smell of freshly baked Finnish Korvapuusti. These delicious cinnamon buns are not only a favorite in Finland but have also gained popularity worldwide due to their unique flavor and iconic shape. Known for their distinctive “slapped ear” appearance, Korvapuusti is a must-try treat for anyone who loves cinnamon-filled pastries.

In this post, I’ll take you through the story behind Korvapuusti, explain how these cinnamon buns became a part of Finnish culture, and provide a clean, easy-to-follow recipe. From the first knead of the dough to the final bite, you’ll discover why this Finnish classic is a beloved addition to coffee breaks and celebrations.

The Story of Finnish Korvapuusti.

Korvapuusti, which translates to “slapped ears,” is a beloved Finnish cinnamon bun that has a rich history. It’s believed that these buns were inspired by Swedish Kanelbullar, but over time, Korvapuusti developed its own unique twist. The distinctive shape of Korvapuusti comes from pinching the dough before baking, giving it a look that resembles a pair of ears.

In Finland, Korvapuusti is a staple during coffee breaks, known as kahvihetki, where people gather with friends or family to enjoy coffee and something sweet. The act of making Korvapuusti often brings families together, creating memories and traditions that are passed down from generation to generation. For me, baking Korvapuusti with my grandmother was always a special occasion. The scent of cardamom and cinnamon filling the kitchen is a memory I cherish, and it’s a tradition I continue with my own family today.

What Makes Finnish Korvapuusti Unique.

While many cinnamon buns are known for their sugary sweetness and rich icing, Finnish Korvapuusti offers a more balanced flavor profile. The dough is spiced with cardamom, which adds a warm, slightly citrusy aroma that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon filling. Unlike American-style cinnamon rolls, Korvapuusti is often less sweet, allowing the flavors of the dough and spices to shine through.

One of the defining features of Korvapuusti is its unique shape. Before baking, the dough is rolled up and then pinched in the middle, giving it the appearance of “slapped ears.” This not only creates a visually appealing bun but also helps the cinnamon filling spread evenly throughout the dough, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor.

Key Ingredients for Finnish Korvapuusti.

To make the perfect Korvapuusti, it’s essential to use the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

• Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the dough, giving it a soft but sturdy texture.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast helps the dough rise and gives the buns their light, fluffy texture.
• Milk: Warm milk is used to activate the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
• Cardamom: Ground cardamom is the secret ingredient that gives Korvapuusti its distinct flavor.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness to both the dough and the cinnamon filling.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is the star of the filling, creating a warm, spiced flavor that complements the cardamom dough.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough, while brown sugar is used in the filling for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Authentic Finnish Korvapuusti.

Here’s a clean and simple recipe for making Finnish Korvapuusti at home.

Ingredients.

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar.
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast.
• 1 cup warm milk.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted.
• 1 large egg.
• 1 tsp ground cardamom.
• ½ tsp salt.

For the Filling:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened.
• ½ cup brown sugar.
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon.

For Topping:

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash).
• Pearl sugar (optional).

Instructions.

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and cardamom. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Let It Rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
4. Spread the Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the butter, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
5. Shape the Buns: Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, forming a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces. To shape the Korvapuusti, pinch the center of each piece to create the classic “slapped ear” appearance.
6. Let the Buns Rise: Place the buns on a greased baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Bake the Buns: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the buns with egg wash and sprinkle pearl sugar on top if desired. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips for Perfecting Your Finnish Korvapuusti.

Achieving the Perfect Texture.

To ensure that your Korvapuusti turns out light and fluffy, be sure to knead the dough thoroughly and give it plenty of time to rise. This helps develop the gluten, creating a soft and airy texture.

Avoiding Overbaking.

Keep a close eye on your buns as they bake. You want them to be golden brown on the outside but still soft in the center. Overbaking can result in dry buns, so remove them from the oven as soon as they’re done.

Enhancing Flavor with Spices.

For a more intense flavor, feel free to increase the amount of cardamom in the dough or add a touch of nutmeg to the cinnamon filling. The combination of these warm spices will elevate the flavor of your Korvapuusti.

Variations of Finnish Korvapuusti.

While the traditional Korvapuusti recipe is delicious as-is, there are a few variations you can try to make it your own.

• Add Almonds or Raisins: For extra texture and flavor, mix in sliced almonds or raisins with the cinnamon sugar filling.
• Make Them Vegan: Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and use almond milk or another dairy-free milk for a vegan version of Korvapuusti.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these buns gluten-free without compromising on flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Finnish Korvapuusti.

Korvapuusti are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. They pair perfectly with a cup of strong coffee or tea, making them an ideal choice for kahvihetki or a mid-morning snack. For an extra indulgent treat, you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside fresh berries.

These buns also make a great addition to a festive brunch spread, offering a balance of sweetness and spice that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions About Finnish Korvapuusti.

What makes Korvapuusti different from other cinnamon buns?

• Korvapuusti is known for its distinctive shape and the use of cardamom in the dough, which sets it apart from other cinnamon buns. It’s also less sweet than many American-style cinnamon rolls.

Can I freeze Korvapuusti?

• Yes! You can freeze baked Korvapuusti for up to three months. Simply thaw and warm them in the oven when ready to enjoy.

How long do Korvapuusti stay fresh?

• Korvapuusti will stay fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them.