Name: The Best Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar) - Fluffy & Low-Sugar Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 500 g Flour (All-purpose or bread flour); 250 ml Warm Milk (No hotter than 37°C (95°F)); 100 g White Sugar (Can be substituted with coconut sugar); 90 g Unsalted Butter (Use non-dairy butter for vegan option); 25 g Fresh Yeast (Can substitute with about 8 g of active dry yeast); 1 large Egg (Use a flax egg for vegan version); 1 pinch Salt; 90 g Butter (Base for filling); 90 g Brown Sugar (Can reduce for less sweetness); 3 tbsp Cinnamon Powder (Adjust to taste); 0.5 tbsp Cardamom Powder (Optional); Pearl Sugar (Coarse sugar is a substitute)

The Best Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)

There's a certain magic that unfolds in the kitchen when you combine warm milk, fluffy dough, and the tantalizing scent of cinnamon. This journey began one chilly afternoon when I decided to create a comforting treat that harkened back to my travels in Sweden. These Swedish Cinnamon Buns, or Kanelbullar, are a delightful twist on the ordinary cinnamon roll. With their knotted shape and a touch less sweetness, they embrace a rich flavor profile that both kids and adults adore.

Imagine pulling a tray of golden-brown buns from the oven, each one radiating warmth and inviting aromas, ready to be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack for the kids. Not only do these low-sugar treats satisfy your cravings, but they also provide a fascinating hands-on baking experience that transforms any day into a special occasion. Join me in whipping up these fluffy delights that promise to bring a little taste of Sweden into your home!

Why You'll Love These Best Swedish Cinnamon Buns?

Simplicity at its finest: These delightful buns require minimal baking skills, making them perfect for anyone from beginner bakers to seasoned chefs.

Less Sugar without sacrificing taste: The reduced sweetness ensures that everyone can enjoy them guilt-free, making them a kid-friendly dessert.

Aromatic Magic: You'll love the harmonious blend of warm cinnamon and cardamom, which fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Versatile Experience: Whether you're serving them at brunch, as an after-school treat, or simply enjoying one with your afternoon coffee, they fit every occasion perfectly.

Fun to Make: The unique knot shape offers a hands-on activity, turning baking into a joyous experience for the whole family.

Try pairing these buns with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect start to your day, or for some inspiration, check out our Cinnamon Roll Variations for exciting twists on this traditional favorite!

The Best Swedish Cinnamon Buns Ingredients

• • Delight in making the perfect Kanelbullar!

For the Dough

Flour - Provides structure; all-purpose or bread flour work best for this recipe.
Warm Milk (250 ml) - Activates yeast and adds moisture; ensure it's no hotter than 37°C (95°F).
White Sugar (100 g) - Adds a hint of sweetness; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Unsalted Butter (90 g) - Infuses rich flavor and tenderness; replace with non-dairy butter for a vegan version.
Fresh Yeast (25 g) - This leavening agent ensures your buns are fluffy; if using active dry yeast, about 8 g is sufficient.
Egg (1) - Adds richness and aids in browning; for a vegan choice, use a flax egg instead.
Salt (1 pinch) - Elevates overall flavor.

For the Filling

Butter (90 g) - The base for your filling, creating a rich spread.
Brown Sugar (90 g) - Pairs beautifully with cinnamon, giving a deep sweetness; can reduce if less sweetness is preferred.
Cinnamon Powder (3 tbsp) - The star of the filling, providing that classic aroma; adjust to taste depending on preference.
Cardamom Powder (½ tbsp, optional) - Adds a unique layer of flavor; use less for a milder taste.

For the Topping

Pearl Sugar - A decorative touch that adds a delightful crunch; coarse sugar is a suitable substitute.

Dive into making the best Swedish Cinnamon Buns that are perfect for any occasion!

How to Make Swedish Cinnamon Buns

Warm Milk: Heat your milk gently until it's warm but not hot-ideally around 37°C (95°F). Combine it with fresh yeast, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl, then whisk until frothy to activate the yeast.
Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and softened butter. Gradually add the yeast mixture, stirring until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the bowl's sides. Cover and let it rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
Prepare Filling: While the dough is resting, mix the filling ingredients-butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom-in a bowl until you have a smooth paste.
Roll Out Dough: After resting, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into a square about 1 mm thick. Spread the filling evenly across the surface.
Cut and Shape: Fold the dough in half, then cut it into 12 strips. Twist each strip into a rope shape, then curl into a knot. Place the knots into a greased muffin tray and let them rise for 15 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Brush each bun with an egg wash and sprinkle with pearl sugar. Bake for 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant.

Optional: Serve warm with a cup of coffee for the perfect pairing.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for the Best Swedish Cinnamon Buns

• Dough Consistency: Make sure your dough is smooth and elastic; if overly sticky, add a bit more flour to avoid dense buns.

• Yeast Activation: Always check that your yeast is fresh and properly activated-bubbles should form; otherwise, your buns won't rise as beautifully.

• Knot Technique: Practicing your knot shape can be fun-ensure twists are tight but not too tight to allow room for rising.

• Freezing Instructions: If you plan to make these ahead, the dough can be frozen after shaping-just remember to add a couple of minutes to the baking time if using frozen dough.

• Serving Warm: These buns taste best fresh out of the oven, so serve them warm to appreciate the delightful aroma and flavor.

Enjoy creating the best Swedish Cinnamon Buns that bring warmth and joy to your gathering!

What to Serve with Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)?

Delight in the magic of creating a complete meal around these fluffy treasures, perfect for any gathering.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances the warm, spiced buns with refreshing sweetness and crunch.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors enhance the comforting cinnamon notes, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy companion melts warmly over the warm buns, forming a delightful contrast to their fluffy texture.
Creamy Yogurt: The tangy creaminess complements the sweetness of the buns beautifully, elevating the overall flavor experience.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness that pairs exceptionally well with the soft cinnamon knots.
Hot Chocolate: Both decadent and comforting, it's a warm hug for your taste buds that beautifully complements the spiced aroma of the buns.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea offers a refreshing counterbalance to the warmth of cinnamon.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses adds an intriguing savory twist, creating a balance of flavor and texture with the sweet buns.
Chocolate Drizzle: A sprinkle of melted chocolate drizzled over the warm buns takes dessert to the next level, enhancing every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Swedish Cinnamon Buns

Room Temperature: Store baked buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, place the buns in the fridge for up to 5 days, but be aware this may slightly alter their texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze shaped but unbaked buns wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes added to the baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, warm the buns in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes, ensuring they retain their fluffy texture.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar) are perfect for meal prep, helping busy home cooks plan ahead! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and let it rise as directed, then refrigerate it overnight. Additionally, the shaped knots can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months. After shaping, place the knots on baking sheets and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just let them rise for about 30 minutes before brushing with egg wash and baking directly from the freezer. This ensures you enjoy just as delicious buns with minimal effort on busy mornings!

Swedish Cinnamon Bun Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful buns with a few creative tweaks!

Cardamom Boost: Increase cardamom in the filling for a bolder spiced flavor that enhances the sweetness.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch and richness.
Fruity Twist: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for an unexpected burst of sweetness in each bite.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the butter in the dough and filling with a non-dairy butter to create a fully vegan treat.
Zesty Citrus: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note that elevates the flavor profile.
Chocolate Surprise: For a decadent twist, mix in some chocolate chips to the filling for an indulgent chocolate-cinnamon fusion.
Chili Heat: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for those who enjoy a bit of warmth alongside cinnamon sweetness.
Alternative Flavors: Swap cinnamon for allspice or nutmeg to create a different warmth and aromatic experience in your buns.

Swedish Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar) Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for Swedish Cinnamon Buns?
For the best results, I recommend using all-purpose or bread flour, as they provide the necessary structure for fluffy buns. If you want an alternative, whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.

How should I store my Swedish Cinnamon Buns?
To keep your buns delightful and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you're not going to finish them within that timeframe, consider refrigerating them for up to 5 days, although the texture may change slightly.

Can I freeze the dough or baked buns?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped but unbaked buns. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just place them in the oven directly from the freezer and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough isn't rising, it might be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated-not too hot, not too cold. You can test the yeast by combining it with warm milk and a pinch of sugar; it should become frothy within 5-10 minutes. If it doesn't, it's best to start over with new yeast.

Are Swedish Cinnamon Buns suitable for people with allergies?
These buns contain common allergens like milk, eggs, and gluten. If you're baking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using almond milk instead of cow's milk, a flax egg in place of the regular egg, and gluten-free flour for a tailored version. Always check your ingredient labels for allergens.

How can I ensure my buns turn out fluffy?
For ultra-fluffy buns, here's a step-by-step tip: When mixing your dough, ensure it becomes smooth and elastic. Allow it to rest in a warm place, as a cozy environment helps the yeast work wonders. Also, double-check that your yeast is fresh; bubbles should form after activation! If the dough feels sticky, add a touch more flour.