Cardamom Bread is a fragrant, slightly sweet loaf infused with the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom. This traditional Scandinavian bread is soft and tender, with a beautiful golden crust and a subtle sweetness that makes it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Often braided and sprinkled with pearl sugar, cardamom bread is both visually stunning and wonderfully flavorful. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted with butter, or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee, this bread is a comforting and aromatic treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pearl sugar or coarse sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and ground cardamom.
- Heat the Milk and Butter: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts and the mixture is warm (about 110°F). Remove from heat.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the warm milk mixture into the flour mixture. Add the egg and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
- Knead the Dough: Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12-15 inches in length. Braid the ropes together and tuck the ends under. Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Bread: Brush the loaf with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) and sprinkle with pearl sugar, if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cardamom Bread is a delightful combination of warmth and sweetness, perfect for cozy mornings or sharing with friends and family during special occasions.
