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Julekage

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Julekage is a classic Swedish holiday bread, celebrated for its soft, tender crumb and aromatic blend of cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This enriched dough is studded with plump dark raisins and candied citron, offering bursts of sweetness and chewy texture in every bite. The crust is lightly golden and often brushed with an egg wash for a beautiful shine. Perfectly suited for the festive season, it pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a slice of cheese. While traditional recipes require patience for rising, this version delivers authentic, comforting flavors that evoke the warmth of a winter kitchen. It makes a lovely gift or centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 12
Calories: 180
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
Julekage is a classic Swedish holiday bread, celebrated for its soft, tender crumb and aromatic blend of cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This enriched dough is studded with plump dark raisins and candied citron, offering bursts of sweetness and chewy texture in every bite. The crust is lightly golden and often brushed with an egg wash for a beautiful shine. Perfectly suited for the festive season, it pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a slice of cheese. While traditional recipes require patience for rising, this version delivers authentic, comforting flavors that evoke the warmth of a winter kitchen. It makes a lovely gift or centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
Directions
  1. 1
    In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the surface and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. 2
    In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cardamom, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. 3
    Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, beaten egg, and raisins to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms. Add milk as needed to achieve a pliable consistency.
  4. 4
    Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. 5
    Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  6. 6
    Punch down dough and shape into a loaf or braided shape. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. 7
    Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  8. 8
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  9. 9
    Mix egg yolk and cold water to make an egg wash. Brush generously over the dough.
  10. 10
    Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
  11. 11
    Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12 servings

Amount Per Serving
Calories 180kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 5.0 gg8%
Saturated Fat 2.5 gg13%
Cholesterol 35 mgmg12%
Sodium 120 mgmg5%
Total Carbohydrate 30 gg10%
Dietary Fiber 1.5 gg6%
Sugars 12 gg
Protein 4 gg8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: julekage, swedish bread, christmas bread, cardamom, raisins, candied citron, yeast bread, holiday baking, scandinavian, festive, sweet bread, nutmeg, cinnamon, egg wash, traditional, winter, homemade, soft crumb, aromatic, gift idea
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/julekage/