Classic Swedish Cardamom Braid
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of this Classic Swedish Cardamom Braid, a beloved traditional bread that’s perfect for any occasion. This sweet, braided loaf is infused with the warm essence of cardamom and studded with plump raisins, resulting in a delightful treat that is both soft and buttery. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a charming dessert, this bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. With its beautiful presentation and delicious taste, this cardamom braid is sure to impress your family and friends! Share the joy of this Swedish classic by gifting a loaf or enjoying it fresh from the oven.
10
Servings
230
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
3 cups (measured)
active dry yeast
1 (1/4 ounce) package (add directly)
sugar
1/4 cup (add directly)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (add directly)
nonfat dry milk powder
1/4 cup (add directly)
hot water
1/2 cup (heated)
butter
3/4 cup (softened)
egg
1 (room temperature, beaten for mixing)
cardamom
1 teaspoon (ground)
raisins
1/3 cup (add directly)
egg white
1 (slightly beaten for glaze)
sugar
2 tablespoons (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, measure 1 cup of flour and then add the active dry yeast, sugar, salt, and dry milk powder. Mix well using a wooden spoon.
2
Add the hot water to the dry ingredients and stir vigorously for 2 minutes or until well combined.
3
Cut butter into several pieces and add to the dough mixture. Mix until incorporated.
4
Crack an egg into the bowl, then add the ground cardamom and raisins. Combine thoroughly.
5
Gradually add flour, 1/4 cup at a time, mixing with a spoon or electric mixer until the dough gathers into a mass and cleans the sides of the bowl.
6
Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes (alternatively, knead in an electric mixer using a dough hook).
7
Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
8
After rising, punch down the dough to release air and turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead briefly to smooth out any bubbles.
9
Divide the dough into three equal pieces and roll each into a 14-inch strand.
10
Start braiding the strands from the middle, working toward one end, then flip the loaf and braid the other side from the middle to the end. Pinch the ends to seal.
11
Transfer the braided loaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with wax paper and let it rise until puffy and doubled in size, about 1 hour.
12
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) 20 minutes before baking.
13
Brush the top of the braid with the slightly beaten egg white and sprinkle with sugar for a lovely shine.
14
Bake the bread for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
15
Once baked, carefully lift the loaf from the sheet and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition Information
11.5
Fat
27
Carbs
3.6
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Classic Swedish Cardamom Braid?
It is a traditional sweet, braided bread infused with cardamom, raisins, and butter, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 230 calories.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 10 servings.
What type of yeast is required for this bread?
The recipe calls for one 1/4 ounce package of active dry yeast.
How much ground cardamom is needed?
You will need 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom.
Are raisins included in this Swedish bread?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/3 cup of raisins.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long does the bread need to bake?
The bread should bake for approximately 45 minutes until the top is golden brown.
How long is the first rising period?
The dough should rise at room temperature for about 1 hour until it has doubled in size.
How long is the second rising period?
After braiding, the loaf should rise for another hour until it is puffy and doubled in size.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
What is used for the glaze on top?
The braid is glazed with one slightly beaten egg white and sprinkled with sugar.
Can I use an electric mixer for the dough?
Yes, you can use an electric mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
How many strands are used for the braid?
The dough is divided into three equal pieces to create three strands for braiding.
How long should each dough strand be?
Each strand should be rolled out to a length of 14 inches.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 3.6 grams of protein.
How much fat is in one serving of this bread?
There are 11.5 grams of fat per serving.
What type of flour is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires 3 cups of measured flour.
Does the recipe use milk powder or liquid milk?
This recipe specifically calls for 1/4 cup of nonfat dry milk powder combined with hot water.
Should the butter be added cold or softened?
The butter should be softened and cut into several pieces before being mixed into the dough.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
You should line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the bread does not stick.
When should I preheat the oven?
Preheat your oven 20 minutes before you intend to bake the bread.
What is the total carbohydrate count per serving?
Each serving contains 27 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the best way to braid the dough?
Start braiding from the middle of the strands toward one end, then flip the loaf and braid from the middle to the other end.
What role does hot water play in this recipe?
The 1/2 cup of hot water is stirred into the dry ingredients and yeast to help activate the dough.
How should the bread be cooled?
Once baked, lift the loaf from the sheet and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Should the egg be at room temperature?
Yes, the recipe specifies one room temperature egg that is beaten for mixing into the dough.
What should be sprinkled on top of the braid?
After glazing with egg white, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top.
Is this bread suitable for holiday baking?
Yes, this is a traditional Swedish recipe often used for holidays and special occasions.
How many total ingredients are in this cardamom braid?
There are 12 total ingredients used for both the dough and the topping.