Swedish Cardamom Buns: 30-Minute Easy Recipe

Name: Swedish Cardamom Buns: 30-Minute Easy Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Scandinavian
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk, warm; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 2 teaspoons ground cardamom; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional, for topping); 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

by Jannet Lisa

5 de October de 2025

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Swedish Cardamom Buns have always held a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy mornings spent with my grandmother. The aroma of warm cardamom and sweet dough filling her kitchen was pure magic. I still remember her hands, dusted with flour, expertly shaping each bun. Making this Kardemummabullar recipe at home brings back those cherished memories, and I’m so excited to share this easy Swedish cardamom bun recipe with you. Get ready for a taste of Scandinavia that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Swedish Cardamom Buns Recipe

You’re going to adore making and eating these delightful Swedish Cardamom Buns. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

Amazing Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet dough and warm, aromatic cardamom is simply irresistible.
Quick to Make: With a prep time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch even on a busy weeknight.
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, recognizable ingredients, these buns offer a comforting treat.

Budget-Friendly Baking: Enjoy delicious pastries without the high cost of a bakery treat, making these homemade cardamom buns incredibly economical.
Family Fun: Kids love helping to shape the dough and the sweet aroma that fills the house.
Authentic Taste: Experience the true essence of Scandinavian cardamom buns right in your own kitchen.

Perfect for Fika: These buns are the quintessential treat for that cherished Swedish coffee break.

Ingredients for Swedish Cardamom Buns

Gathering the right ingredients is key to mastering this Kardemummabullar recipe. You’ll find that simple components come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup whole milk, warm – This helps activate the yeast.

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – The magic leavening agent for fluffy buns.
1/2 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness in the dough itself.
1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

1 large egg, room temperature – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – Provides moisture and a tender crumb.
4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting – The base of our dough.

2 teaspoons ground cardamom – The star spice that gives these buns their signature flavor!
1/4 cup granulated sugar – For the sweet, spiced filling.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – For the luscious filling.

1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional, for topping) – Adds a delightful crunch.
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash) – Gives that beautiful golden-brown finish.

How to Make Swedish Cardamom Buns

Ready to create some magic? Making these delicious homemade cardamom buns is a rewarding process. Follow these steps for the best results!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your buns bake evenly and don’t stick.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets nice and foamy. This tells you the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup sugar, salt, and room-temperature egg. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and the softened butter. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and the fragrant ground cardamom to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough begins to form. It should be sticky but manageable.
Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic dough that springs back when you gently poke it. This develops the gluten, essential for a tender crumb.
Step 6: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The dough will become light and airy.

Step 7: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal portions.
Step 8: For each portion, roll it out into a long rope, about 12 inches in length. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly uniform; rustic charm is part of the appeal of this easy Swedish cardamom bun recipe.
Step 9: On a flat surface, spread the softened butter evenly over each dough rope. Then, sprinkle generously with the 1/4 cup sugar and the remaining teaspoon of cardamom. This creates that signature sweet and spiced filling.

Step 10: Tightly roll up each dough rope from one end to the other, encasing the buttery, sugary cardamom filling.
Step 11: Shape the rolled dough into a knot or a swirl, tucking in the ends neatly. This step is where your homemade cardamom buns start to take their beautiful form.
Step 12: Place the shaped buns onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.

Step 13: Cover the buns loosely with a kitchen towel again and let them perform a second rise for another 30-45 minutes. They’ll get puffy and ready for baking.
Step 14: Once the buns have finished their second rise, brush the tops evenly with the beaten egg wash. If you’re using them, sprinkle the chopped almonds over the egg wash for a delightful crunch.
Step 15: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and smell absolutely divine.

Step 16: Remove the buns from the baking sheet and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy your freshly baked Swedish Cardamom Buns!

Swedish Cardamom Buns: 30-Minute Easy Recipe - Swedish Cardamom Buns - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Swedish Cardamom Buns

Achieving that perfect texture and flavor for your homemade treats is easier than you think with these insider tips. They’ll help elevate your baking and ensure your homemade cardamom buns are a hit every time.

Use room-temperature ingredients, especially the butter and egg, for a smoother, more cohesive dough.
Don’t skimp on kneading! Proper kneading develops the gluten structure, which is crucial for that signature light and airy crumb in your Swedish pastry cardamom buns.
Allow the dough to rise sufficiently in a warm, draft-free spot. Patience here yields wonderfully fluffy buns.

For an extra burst of flavor, lightly toast your cardamom pods before grinding them. You can learn more about the benefits of toasting spices here.

What’s the secret to perfect Swedish Cardamom Buns?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients and technique. Using softened, not melted, butter in the filling creates pockets of flavor, while proper kneading ensures a tender crumb. Achieving authentic Swedish cardamom buns is all about these small details.

Can I make Swedish Cardamom Buns ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After the first rise, punch it down, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature for about an hour before shaping and proceeding with the recipe. For more make-ahead baking tips, check out these make-ahead baking tips.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Kardemummabullar?

A common pitfall is using too much flour, leading to dry buns. Stick to the recipe’s measurements and only add a touch more if the dough is unmanageably sticky. Also, be careful not to overbake, which can dry them out quickly.

Best Ways to Serve Scandinavian Cardamom Buns

These delightful buns are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion, especially when you embrace the Swedish tradition of “fika.” Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy them.

The Classic Fika: Pair your fika cardamom buns with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of milk. This is the quintessential Scandinavian coffee break, perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon treat.

With Fresh Berries: Serve them slightly warm alongside a bowl of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries. The tartness of the fruit beautifully complements the sweet, spiced cardamom flavor.
As a Light Dessert: Enjoy these buns after a lighter meal. They’re sweet enough to satisfy a craving without being overly heavy, making them an ideal end to a dinner.

Swedish Cardamom Buns: 30-Minute Easy Recipe - Swedish Cardamom Buns - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Swedish Cardamom Buns

Enjoying these delightful Swedish Cardamom Buns is a treat for your taste buds, and knowing their nutritional breakdown can help you savor them even more. These figures are based on a single serving of the recipe as written.

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 12 g

Saturated Fat: 7 g
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g

Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 18 g
Sodium: 150 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Homemade Cardamom Buns

Keeping your delightful Swedish Cardamom Buns fresh is key to enjoying their wonderful flavor and texture. Once they’ve cooled completely on a wire rack, it’s time to think about storage. For the best kept flavor, an airtight container is your best friend. If you plan to enjoy them within 3 to 4 days, storing them at room temperature in that container is perfect.

Want to keep these delicious treats for longer? Freezing is a fantastic option! Wrap each individual bun tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a taste of Scandinavia, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm, freshly baked experience, you can gently reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method revives their lovely aroma and soft texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Cardamom Buns

What are Swedish Cardamom Buns?

Swedish Cardamom Buns, or Kardemummabullar, are a beloved Scandinavian pastry. They are made from a sweet yeast dough infused with the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom. Often shaped into knots or swirls, they are a staple during coffee breaks and celebrations. These sweet buns are a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of Swedish baking.

Why are Swedish Cardamom Buns popular?

Their popularity stems from their unique, comforting flavor profile and their association with “fika,” the cherished Swedish tradition of a coffee and pastry break. The irresistible aroma of cardamom, combined with a soft, slightly sweet dough, makes them incredibly addictive. They represent a moment of pause and enjoyment, making them a beloved part of Scandinavian culture and a hit worldwide for those seeking delicious homemade pastries.

Can I make Swedish Cardamom Buns gluten-free?

While this specific recipe uses traditional wheat flour, it is possible to adapt it for a gluten-free diet. You would need to use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking. The texture might vary slightly, but with the right blend and perhaps a binder like xanthan gum, you can still achieve delicious gluten-free cardamom buns. For more on gluten-free baking, explore resources on Gluten Free Living.

What’s the best way to get a strong cardamom flavor?

For the most intense cardamom flavor, I always recommend using whole cardamom pods, grinding them fresh just before you bake. Pre-ground cardamom can lose its potency over time. Toasting the pods lightly before grinding also helps to release their aromatic oils, ensuring your Swedish Cardamom Buns have that signature robust taste.

Variations of Swedish Cardamom Buns You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with your bakes! These variations offer exciting twists on the beloved Swedish cardamom buns, ensuring there’s a perfect version for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a different flavor profile or a dietary adaptation, these ideas will inspire your next batch of cardamom sweet buns.

Swedish Cinnamon and Cardamom Buns: For an extra layer of warmth and spice, add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the sugar and cardamom filling. This creates a delightful fusion of two classic baking spices, making your buns even more aromatic and delicious.

Vegan Kardemummabullar: Easily adapt the recipe by using plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and vegan butter. Replace the egg wash with a simple plant-based milk and sugar glaze for a completely vegan treat that’s just as satisfying.
Cardamom Orange Buns: Add the zest of one orange to the dough for a bright, citrusy note that pairs wonderfully with cardamom. You could also add a tablespoon of orange juice to the filling for an extra zesty kick.
Mini Cardamom Buns: Divide the dough into smaller portions (about 18-20 pieces) and shape them into mini knots or swirls. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or for those who prefer a smaller indulgence.

For more baking inspiration, check out our collection of latest recipes.

If you enjoyed these buns, you might also like our recipe for blueberry blondies.

And for another delightful baked good, try our apple snickerdoodles.

Don’t forget to explore our cheesy mushroom casserole for a savory option.

Finally, if you’re looking for a quick dessert, our chocolate mug cake is a great choice.