Saffron Buns

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron threads 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron threads
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• Raisins, for garnish Raisins, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, saffron, cardamom, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the warm milk, melted butter, and warm water.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 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 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long strip and shape it into an "S" or a twisted knot.
8. 8.
   Place the shaped buns on the prepared baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
9. 9.
   Brush the buns with the beaten egg and garnish each bun with a raisin.
10. 10.
    Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and aroma of saffron, crush the threads slightly before adding them to the dough.
• Cardamom — For a more pronounced cardamom flavor, grind whole cardamom pods and use freshly ground cardamom in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter bun, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough.
• Serve the Saffron Buns warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful Swedish fika experience.
• These buns can be frozen after baking and reheated in the oven for a quick treat.
• Experiment with different shapes and designs to make your Saffron Buns visually appealing.

Serving advice

Serve the Saffron Buns warm or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own but can also be enjoyed with a spread of butter or cream cheese.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Saffron Buns on a platter, showcasing their golden color and unique shapes. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.