Finnish Cardamom Pulla

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) whole milk, warmed 2 cups (470ml) whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 cups (720g) all-purpose flour 6 cups (720g) all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Pearl sugar, for sprinkling (optional) Pearl sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 58g, 18g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and foamy.
2. 2.
   Add the ground cardamom, salt, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope and braid them together. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into knots or any desired shape.
8. 8.
   Place the braided dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar, if desired.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cardamom — For the best flavor, use freshly ground cardamom pods instead of pre-ground cardamom. Crush the pods and remove the seeds, then grind them using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
• For a richer taste, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar to 1 1/2 cups.
• To make the bread more festive, you can decorate it with slivered almonds or raisins before baking.
• Leftover Pulla can be toasted and enjoyed with butter or jam.

Serving advice

Serve the Cardamom Pulla warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own, but you can also spread some butter or cream cheese on a slice for an extra indulgence.

Presentation advice

Present the Cardamom Pulla on a wooden cutting board or a decorative bread basket. You can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea.