Name: Soft and Fluffy Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons whole milk (150 ml); 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet; see notes for active dry yeast); ¼ cup dark brown sugar (50g); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (room temperature); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57g, melted and cooled); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour (375g); 2 teaspoons cardamom (freshly ground if possible, about 4g); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, 113g); ½ cup dark brown sugar (100g); 2 teaspoons cardamom (freshly ground, about 4g); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (optional); ¼ cup water (boiling); ¼ cup dark brown sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (optional); 1 large egg (beaten); ½ teaspoon cardamom (freshly ground, optional); 2-3 tablespoons Swedish pearl sugar (optional)

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 7 reviews

If you adore warm, aromatic treats that melt in your mouth, then you are in for a delightful experience with the Soft and Fluffy Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) Recipe. These beloved Swedish pastries are the perfect harmony of fragrant cardamom spice and tender, buttery dough, creating a soft and fluffy texture that’s simply irresistible. Every bite carries a cozy sweetness that makes these buns ideal for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon coffee companion. Trust me, once you try these authentic little twists of joy, they’ll quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A flat lay of various baking ingredients is arranged on a white marbled surface. At the top left is a large white bowl filled with white all-purpose flour with a dark brown rim. To its right is a medium white bowl filled with dark brown sugar. Below the large bowl, two brown eggs sit on a small white egg tray. Next to the eggs is a small white bowl with dark vanilla extract. Near the center right is a medium white bowl holding light beige yeast and below it, a white bowl with green cardamom pods. To the right is a small round wooden bowl filled with white kosher salt. At the bottom right corner, a wrapped block of unsalted butter with red and gold packaging lays on the surface. Near the bottom left, a small white jug with water sits next to a speckled white cup filled with whole milk. Near the center left, a small wooden bowl holds white Swedish pearl sugar, and above it on the left side is a tiny bowl of black vanilla bean paste. Everything is neatly spaced and well lit. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting these Soft and Fluffy Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) Recipe just right depends on some beautifully simple and carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s creating the perfect dough, infusing the unmistakable cardamom aroma, or making the filling luxuriously smooth and flavorful.

Whole milk (1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons): Warm milk activates the yeast and helps create soft, tender buns.
Instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): Gives the dough a lovely rise; active dry yeast can also be used with a little prep.
Dark brown sugar (¼ and ½ cup): Adds deep molasses notes and sweetness to both dough and filling.
Large egg plus 1 egg yolk: Adds richness and beautiful golden color to the dough.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons melted + 8 tablespoons softened): Essential for softness and buttery flavor in dough and filling.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon) & vanilla bean paste (optional): Adds warm, comforting vanilla undertones that enhance all the spices.
All-purpose flour (3 cups): This sturdy base offers the structure needed for soft, yet fluffy texture.
Cardamom (freshly ground, 2 teaspoons in dough & filling, plus a pinch for topping): The star spice that gives these buns their iconic, fragrant identity.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon in dough + ½ teaspoon in filling): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors perfectly.
Water (¼ cup boiling): Used for the optional glaze to add extra shine and sweetness.
Swedish pearl sugar (2–3 tablespoons, optional): Offers a delightful crunch and that classic Scandinavian look on top.

How to Make Soft and Fluffy Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast and Prepare the Dough

Start by warming the milk to about 110-115°F, the perfect temperature to wake up your yeast without killing it. Stir in the yeast and a pinch of brown sugar, then wait until it bubbles up, foaming lightly—this little sign means your dough is off to a great start. While this rests, whisk your eggs, melted butter, and vanilla into the mix, making a rich, creamy base. Combine the dry ingredients separately, including freshly ground cardamom for that true Nordic flair, and gradually add them into your wet mixture for a soft but sturdy dough. Kneading is key here: work it with a dough hook or by hand until the dough is silky and elastic, ready to rise.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

After kneading, place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Find a warm, cozy spot and let it rest for about an hour until it doubles in size. This rise is critical for that soft and fluffy texture that makes these cardamom buns stand out. Watching the dough grow is almost as satisfying as eating the final product!

Step 3: Prepare the Delicious Filling

While your dough is proofing, cream together the softened butter, dark brown sugar, ground cardamom, salt, and that optional splash of vanilla bean paste. This luscious filling is what turns simple dough into the sweet, spiced layers that you’ll love in every bite. Keep it at room temperature, so it’s smooth and easy to spread when the time comes.

Step 4: Shape the Iconic Cardamom Buns

Punch down your risen dough gently and roll it out into a roughly 16×20-inch rectangle—a generous canvas for layering that filling. Spread the filling evenly over half the dough, fold the other half over, and slice into thin strips about an inch wide. Now comes the fun part: stretch each strip a bit, twist it tightly, and then wrap it around your fingers to form the signature knot. Tuck the ends through, press to seal, and arrange these little wonders on a parchment-lined sheet, ready for their final rise.

Step 5: Final Rise and Glaze Preparation

Let the shaped buns puff yet again for 45 minutes to an hour until noticeably puffy and light. While they’re resting, if you want that extra shine and sweetness on your buns, mix boiling water, brown sugar, and vanilla bean paste to create a fragrant glaze to brush on after baking.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush each bun with beaten egg and sprinkle on pearl sugar and a touch of ground cardamom for that traditional look and irresistible crunch. Bake in a hot 425°F oven for 9 to 11 minutes until deeply golden and beautifully risen. Right after they come out of the oven, brush with your glaze for an eye-catching shine and a touch more sweetness. Let them cool slightly before diving in.

How to Serve Soft and Fluffy Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) Recipe

The image shows six small twisted dough knots placed evenly on crinkled white parchment paper on a metal baking tray. Each dough knot has a light golden-brown color with darker streaks of filling visible through the layers, showing a cut-and-twisted texture. The dough looks soft and slightly shiny, with visible specks that suggest seasoning or spices mixed in. The spiraled layers create a round, compact shape with some uneven edges. The baking tray sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To keep things classic and charming, a sprinkle of Swedish pearl sugar and a pinch of fresh cardamom powder provide both texture and aroma that accentuate the buns beautifully. You might also consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a gentle glaze drizzle for extra allure.

Side Dishes

These buns are perfectly complemented by a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a heartier spread, serving them alongside rich cream cheese, freshly whipped butter, or a tangy berry jam will elevate your fika—a Swedish coffee break—to a full sensory delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking several buns on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by fresh berries and a pot of honey. For a festive touch, arrange the buns in a woven basket lined with a linen cloth. Pairing with a small bowl of clotted cream or homemade vanilla custard also makes for a whimsical indulgence sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Soft and Fluffy Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) Recipe keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain softness, wrap them in plastic wrap before sealing; this helps prevent drying out without sacrificing texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these buns either before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm your buns gently in the oven at 300°F for about 5 to 7 minutes or microwave them for 10-15 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel for a soft, just-baked feel. If you have that lovely glaze, brushing it on again after reheating revives that beautiful sheen and sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes! Simply dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy before combining with other ingredients.

Is freshly ground cardamom necessary for this recipe?

Freshly ground cardamom delivers the most vibrant, aromatic flavor, but pre-ground cardamom can work if fresh isn’t available. Just use slightly less as it tends to be more potent.

Can I make these buns without eggs?

Eggs add richness, color, and structure to the dough, so omitting them will affect texture and appearance. However, some vegan alternatives like flax eggs can be tried for similar results with some adjustment.

How important is the second rise before baking?

The second rise ensures the buns become light and airy. Skipping it may result in denser buns, so it’s worth the extra waiting time for the perfect fluffy texture.

What is the best way to store leftover buns long-term?

Freezing is your best friend! Wrap the buns tightly and freeze as soon as they cool, allowing you to enjoy these treats fresh any time you want by simply thawing and warming.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Soft and Fluffy Swedish Cardamom Buns (Kardemummabullar) Recipe a try—it’s one of those rare treasures that feels both special and wonderfully comforting at the same time. Once you pull those golden, fragrant delights from the oven and inhale that intoxicating cardamom aroma, you’ll understand why these buns are a beloved Scandinavian tradition. Warm, fragrant, and perfectly soft, they’re sure to brighten any day and create heartfelt memories with every bite.

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