Swedish Cardamom Braid

Servings: 3 cups Difficulty: Advanced
A fragrant, golden-brown braided bread with a soft crumb and aromatic spice
Swedish Cardamom Braid Abm recipe image

Swedish Cardamom Braid

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 3 cups Calories: 195

Description

This classic Swedish Cardamom Braid is a delightful treat that fills your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma. The dough is rich and tender, thanks to a combination of milk, oil, and egg, while the warm notes of ground cardamom provide a distinctive Scandinavian flair. Plump raisins are folded into the dough, offering pockets of natural sweetness that balance the subtle spice. Perfect for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, this braided loaf is both visually impressive and incredibly comforting.

Directions

  1. Combine the yeast and lukewarm water in a small bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy and dissolved.
  2. Heat the milk until scalded (just before boiling), then pour it over the sugar in a large mixing bowl to dissolve.
  3. Stir in the salt and vegetable oil. Allow the mixture to cool until lukewarm (about 105-110°F) so it does not kill the yeast.
  4. Stir the yeast mixture and egg into the cooled milk mixture.
  5. Add 3 cups of the flour and the ground cardamom. Beat until smooth and combined.
  6. Stir in the raisins and the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, adding more if necessary to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
  7. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  8. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap.
  9. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  10. Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Transfer to a lightly floured surface.
  11. Divide the dough into three equal parts. Roll each part into a 10-inch-long strand.
  12. Braid the three strands together loosely. Pinch the ends to seal.
  13. Place the braided loaf on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
  14. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise again for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  15. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  16. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  17. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 3 cups


Amount Per Serving
Calories 195kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4.5g7%
Saturated Fat 0.8g4%
Cholesterol 25mg9%
Sodium 145mg7%
Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 10g
Protein 5g10%

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

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