Cardamom Sugar Buns

Cardamom Sugar Buns: A Delightful Twist on Classic Danish Pastry

These Cardamom Sugar Buns are a delightful treat that combine the buttery, flaky texture of Danish pastry with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom. With a sweet filling of brown sugar, cardamom, and butter, these buns are a perfect indulgence for breakfast or dessert. Rolled in cardamom sugar after baking, they have a crisp, sweet exterior that’s utterly irresistible. If you love baked goods with a fragrant, spiced twist, these buns are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery and Flaky: The use of Danish dough makes these buns beautifully light, flaky, and buttery.
• Aromatic Flavor: Cardamom adds a warm and aromatic flavor that sets these buns apart from traditional sweet rolls.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as a snack with coffee, or as a special dessert, these buns are versatile and always delicious.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 recipe Easy Danish Dough, prepared separately

For the Filling:

• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Coating:

• 1 cup (198g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

Instructions

1. Prepare the Danish Dough

Start by preparing a batch of Easy Danish Dough, following your favorite recipe or using a premade dough. Once the dough is prepared, let it rest and rise according to the recipe instructions. Danish dough is essential for achieving the flaky, buttery layers that make these buns so special.

2. Prepare the Molds

While the dough is resting, prepare the baking molds. Butter ten 3 x 2-inch soufflé molds, ramekins, or muffin tins. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Generously coat the molds with granulated sugar, tapping out any excess. Arrange the molds on a baking sheet for easy handling.

3. Mix the Filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt. This sugar mixture will create a fragrant and sweet filling that complements the rich dough.

4. Roll the Dough

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 16 x 12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Brush the surface of the dough with melted butter, ensuring an even layer. Sprinkle the sugar-cardamom mixture evenly over the buttered dough, pressing it lightly to help it adhere.

5. Form the Buns

Starting from the long side of the dough, roll it tightly into a cylinder, as you would for cinnamon rolls. Pinch the seam to seal the roll. Position the dough seam-side down on the surface, and cut it into 10 equal pieces (or 12 pieces if using a muffin tin). Transfer each piece to the prepared molds, with the cut side facing up.

6. Let the Dough Rise

Cover the molds loosely with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the buns have doubled in size. The second rise helps create those soft, airy layers inside the buns.

7. Preheat the Oven

Adjust your oven rack to the middle-lower position and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the buns bake evenly without browning too quickly.

8. Bake the Buns

Once the dough has risen, remove the plastic wrap and place the baking sheet with the molds in the preheated oven. Bake the buns for 22 to 30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the buns are golden brown and fully baked.

9. Prepare the Sugar Coating

While the buns are baking, prepare the sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cardamom. This coating will add a sweet, aromatic finish to the buns.

10. Cool and Coat the Buns

When the buns are done baking, transfer the baking sheet to a wire rack to cool for a few minutes. Using a towel or oven mitts, carefully pick up each soufflé mold and run a knife around the edges to loosen the buns. Flip each roll onto the wire rack, then gently turn the buns right side up. While the buns are still slightly warm, toss them in the cardamom sugar mixture to coat evenly. The sugar will stick to the warm buns, creating a deliciously sweet and crisp exterior.

Tips for Success

• Rising Time: Make sure to give the dough ample time to rise during both the initial preparation and before baking. This ensures light and fluffy buns.
• Use Fresh Cardamom: For the best flavor, use freshly ground cardamom. The warm, citrusy notes of fresh cardamom make these buns truly special.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bun, feel free to increase the amount of sugar in both the filling and the coating.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 to 1½ hours
• Bake Time: 22-30 minutes
• Total Time: 2½ hours
• Servings: 10 buns
• Calories: 350 kcal per bun

Final Thoughts

These Cardamom Sugar Buns are the perfect balance of buttery, flaky layers and warm, aromatic sweetness. The combination of cardamom and sugar gives the buns a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something delicious, these buns are sure to impress.

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