Chef John is our resident expert in Scandinavian Breads and this recipe is both quick to make and simple to shape!
Ingredients
Lussekatter (Saffron buns)
1cupMilk230g
1/2tspSaffron threadslightly crushed
1stickButter4 oz (112g)
4-1/2cupsAll purpose flour540g
1TbspInstant yeast
1-1/2tspKosher salt
1/3cupSugar68g
3Eggs
1tspVanilla extract
1Eggfor glaze
2TbspSwedish pearl sugar
1/4cupGolden raisins
Instructions
Bring milk and saffron to a simmer. Remove from heat and add butter. Let butter melt and mixture cool to lukewarm.
Whisk yeast, flours, salt and sugar in a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.
Separate one of the eggs, and set the white aside for glaze. Pour the milk and butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Add 2 whole eggs, 1 egg yolk, and vanilla. Mix to combine then knead for about 7 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover. Let rise for about an hour or until puffy.
Divide it into 12 equal pieces of about 92g, or 3 1/4 ounces.
Shape the pieces of dough into logs. Cover and let rest about 10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax. Roll each log into a rope about 15”- 18” long.
Roll one end of a rope clockwise almost to center, repeat with other end but going counterclockwise creating an "S" shape. Tuck a golden raisin or pistachio into the center of each of the two coils. Preheat the oven to 375F.
Place buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet with about an inch between. Cover and let rise for about 30 minutes until noticeably puffy, but not doubled.
Brush each bun with egg white/water glaze and sprinkle with coarse white Swedish pearl sugar.
Bake the buns until they're golden brown, about 18 to 20 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer to a rack to cool.