Print

Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe

Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe
Print Recipe

Delight in the captivating aroma and golden allure of Swedish Saffron Buns, a cherished delicacy deeply rooted in Swedish culinary tradition. Also known as “Lussekatter” or “St. Lucia buns,” these saffron-infused treats hold a prominent place in Swedish culture, particularly during the festive Christmas season and on St. Lucia Day, December 13th.

Picture yourself immersed in the cozy ambiance of a Swedish kitchen, where the sweet scent of saffron fills the air as dough is lovingly kneaded and shaped into intricate spirals and “S” shapes. These buns, with their vibrant hue and delicate texture, are not just a culinary delight but also a symbol of warmth and light during the dark winter months.

In this recipe, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey to Sweden as we explore the art of making Swedish Saffron Buns. From infusing the dough with saffron’s subtle floral notes to crafting the perfect shape, each step is a testament to the rich heritage and time-honored traditions of Swedish baking.

Join us as we celebrate the magic of the holiday season and embrace the joy of sharing these delightful buns with family and friends. Let the aroma of saffron and the warmth of Swedish hospitality fill your home as you indulge in the timeless charm of Swedish Saffron Buns.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 200ml milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 100g unsalted butter
  • 75g granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 7g (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 450g all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Raisins or pearl sugar (for decoration)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until warm but not boiling. Add the saffron threads and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the saffron-infused milk to the butter mixture and stir to combine.
  4. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  5. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  6. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  7. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  8. Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into a bun or desired shape.
  9. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  10. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Brush the risen buns with beaten egg and decorate with raisins or pearl sugar.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
  12. Remove from the oven and let the buns cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

  • Saffron can be expensive, so you can adjust the amount used according to your taste and budget.
  • Make sure the yeast is fresh and active to ensure proper rising of the dough.
  • Traditional Swedish saffron buns are often shaped into “S” or “L” shapes, but you can get creative with your shapes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Swedish Saffron Buns Recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenjs.com/swedish-saffron-buns-recipe/