Overview.

There’s something truly magical about Swedish Kanelbullar, or cinnamon rolls, fresh out of the oven. Unlike their American cousins, Kanelbullar are lighter, less sweet, and packed with warm, fragrant flavors from cinnamon and cardamom. In Sweden, they aren’t just a dessert but a cherished part of everyday life. These rolls are often enjoyed during fika, the Swedish coffee break, which offers a moment to slow down, relax, and savor a warm drink and pastry.

In this post, you’ll learn the story behind Kanelbullar, how to make them from scratch, and tips to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture. By the end, you’ll understand why this simple yet delightful pastry has become a favorite around the world.

The Story of Swedish Kanelbullar.

The history of Kanelbullar dates back to the 1920s, when Swedish bakers began experimenting with spices like cinnamon and cardamom. At the time, these spices were considered exotic and luxurious, making Kanelbullar a special treat. Over the years, Kanelbullar became a staple of Swedish baking and soon became tied to the tradition of fika a daily coffee break that includes a pastry or small snack.

Fika is more than just a break; it’s a social institution in Sweden, offering time to pause and connect with friends, family, or coworkers. Kanelbullar, with their soft, spiced dough and sweet cinnamon filling, are often the pastry of choice during fika. Every year, Sweden even celebrates Kanelbullens Dag (Cinnamon Roll Day) on October 4th, further emphasizing the special place this pastry holds in Swedish culture.

Why Swedish Kanelbullar Stands Out.

Compared to the more sugary and frosting-covered American cinnamon rolls, Swedish Kanelbullar offers a more balanced, subtly sweet experience. The use of cardamom in the dough is a signature element that sets Kanelbullar apart, adding a floral, slightly citrusy note to complement the cinnamon filling. The dough itself is light and airy, thanks to the yeast, but it still has a rich, buttery flavor.

Additionally, Kanelbullar is often sprinkled with pearl sugar instead of slathered in icing, allowing the flavors of the dough and cinnamon to truly shine. This makes them less heavy and a perfect companion to coffee or tea, especially during fika.

Key Ingredients for Swedish Kanelbullar.

To make the best Swedish Kanelbullar, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients that help achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need.

• Flour: All-purpose flour works well for this recipe, giving the dough structure while keeping it light.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness to the dough and enhances the cinnamon filling.
• Milk: Warm milk activates the yeast and provides moisture to the dough.
• Cardamom: Ground cardamom is a defining spice in Swedish Kanelbullar, used in the dough for a fragrant, spicy aroma.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon, mixed with sugar, creates the sweet, spiced filling that swirls through each roll.
• Sugar: Both granulated sugar for sweetness in the dough and cinnamon filling, and pearl sugar for the topping.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast helps the dough rise, creating a soft and airy texture.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Authentic Swedish Kanelbullar.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar.
• 1 tsp ground cardamom.
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast.
• 1 cup warm milk.
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened.
• 1 egg.
• 1 pinch of salt.

For the Filling:

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

For Topping:

• Pearl sugar (optional).

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine the warm milk and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cardamom, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle on a floured surface.
4. Spread the Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar mixture on top.
5. Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly from one side to the other, then slice into 12 equal pieces. Place them on a lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for 30 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with egg wash and sprinkle pearl sugar on top. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips for Perfecting Swedish Kanelbullar.

Achieving the perfect texture for Kanelbullar requires a few key tips. First, don’t rush the rising process. Allowing the dough to properly rise creates that light, airy texture that makes Kanelbullar so delightful. Secondly, be mindful of the filling-to-dough ratio. You want enough cinnamon sugar to infuse the dough without making the rolls too sweet or sticky.

Finally, avoid overbaking. The rolls should be golden on the outside but still soft and tender inside. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t dry out.

Variations of Swedish Kanelbullar.

While traditional Kanelbullar are made with a classic cinnamon and sugar filling, there are several variations you can try.

• Add Raisins or Almonds: Incorporating raisins or chopped almonds into the filling can add extra texture and flavor.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for those with dietary restrictions. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
• Vegan Kanelbullar: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy milk for a vegan version of Kanelbullar.

Swedish Fika and Its Cultural Importance.

In Sweden, the tradition of fika is a cherished daily ritual. It’s more than just a coffee break it’s a time to slow down, reconnect with friends, and enjoy something sweet. Kanelbullar are often the centerpiece of fika, paired with a strong cup of coffee. Whether shared at a local café or at home with loved ones, fika offers a moment of calm in an otherwise busy day.

The simplicity and warmth of Kanelbullar make them a natural fit for fika, symbolizing comfort, community, and the pleasure of enjoying life’s small moments.

Serving Suggestions for Swedish Kanelbullar.

Kanelbullar are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with a hot beverage. Traditionally, they’re enjoyed with strong Swedish coffee, but they also pair well with tea or even a spiced mulled wine during the colder months.

For a fun twist, try serving Kanelbullar warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast between the warm rolls and cold ice cream makes for a delightful dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Kanelbullar.

How do I store leftover Kanelbullar?

• Store leftover Kanelbullar in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for up to three months.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.

What’s the difference between Kanelbullar and American cinnamon rolls?

• Kanelbullar are less sweet, often made with cardamom, and typically topped with pearl sugar rather than frosting.