Cardamom Rolls: A Scandinavian-Inspired Sweet Treat

 The enchanting aroma of cardamom and buttery yeasted dough wafting through your kitchen is reason enough to make these delectable cardamom rolls. Drawing inspiration from traditional Scandinavian baking, these rolls offer a sophisticated twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring the warm, complex spice notes of cardamom throughout both the dough and filling.

Prep Time: 2.5 hours (including rising) Cook Time: 25-30 minutes Total Time: 3 hours Yield: 12 rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm whole milk
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of ground cardamom

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Meanwhile, grind your cardamom pods if using fresh, or measure out pre-ground cardamom.
2. Add the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and softened butter to the milk mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cardamom, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing softened butter with brown sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon until well combined.
6. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16x20-inch rectangle.
7. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border along one long edge.
8. Starting from the long edge without the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
9. Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
11. While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls.

Tips for Success

• Freshly ground cardamom pods will give you the most aromatic and flavorful results.
• Ensure all cold ingredients are at room temperature before beginning
• Don't rush the rising process - proper proofing is key to tender, fluffy rolls
• The rolls should be slightly golden brown on top when done, with an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C)

These cardamom rolls make a wonderful weekend breakfast treat or afternoon snack with coffee. The distinctive cardamom flavor sets them apart from ordinary cinnamon rolls, while the tender dough and sweet glaze create an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, though they're best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm from the oven. You can also freeze the baked rolls for up to 2 months - simply thaw and reheat before serving.

Whether you're familiar with Scandinavian baking or new to using cardamom in sweet treats, these rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire.