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Classic Finnish Pulla Cardamom Braid Bread

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A soft, sweet, and aromatic Finnish braided bread flavored with cardamom, perfect for cozy mornings or fika coffee breaks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cardamom (freshly ground for best flavor)
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons pearl sugar or coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warmed milk (110°F / 43°C) with 1 teaspoon sugar and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, ground cardamom, and salt.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine.
  4. Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. Add flour sparingly if it’s too wet.
  6. First Rise: Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Shape the Braids: Punch down the dough gently and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each into a long rope, approximately 16 inches (40 cm) long. Pinch the tops together and braid the three ropes tightly but gently, then pinch the ends to seal.
  8. Second Rise: Place the braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.
  9. Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the braid gently with beaten egg, then sprinkle pearl sugar on top.
  10. Bake: Bake in the center rack for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use freshly ground cardamom pods for best flavor. Milk should be warmed to about 110°F to activate yeast properly. Knead dough until elastic and slightly sticky. Do not skip the second rise for a light texture. Egg wash gently to avoid pooling.

Nutrition

Keywords: Finnish pulla, cardamom bread, braided bread, sweet bread, Scandinavian bread, coffee bread, pulla braid

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/classic-finnish-pulla-cardamom-braid-bread-recipe-easy-step-by-step-guide/