Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour5 cups
• Granulated sugar1/2 cup
• Active dry yeast2 1/4 teaspoons
• Milk, lukewarm1 1/2 cups
• Unsalted butter, softened1/2 cup
• Eggs1 large
• Ground cardamom1 teaspoon
• Salt1 teaspoon
• Unsalted butter, softened1/2 cup
• Brown sugar3/4 cup
• Ground cinnamon2 tablespoons
• Egg, beaten (for egg wash)1
• Pearl sugar (optional)2 tablespoons

Steps

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine lukewarm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. 2

   Add the remaining granulated sugar, softened butter, egg, cardamom, salt, and about half of the flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well.

3. 3

   Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. 4

   Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. 5

   While dough rises, prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

6. 6

   Punch down the risen dough. Divide it in half. Roll each half into a rectangle (about 10x14 inches).

7. 7

   Spread half of the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over each rectangle.

8. 8

   Starting from a long edge, tightly roll up each rectangle. Cut each roll into 8 equal slices.

9. 9

   Place slices cut-side up in greased baking sheets or muffin tins. Cover loosely and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

10. 10

    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the tops of the buns with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle with pearl sugar, if using.

11. 11

    Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

12. 12

    Let cool on a wire rack.