Saint Lucia Buns Lussekatter Saffron Buns
Celebrate the festive season with Saint Lucia Buns, also known as Lussekatter Saffron Buns—a traditional Swedish treat that combines the delicate aroma of saffron with a soft, pillowy texture. These golden-yellow buns are lightly sweetened and enriched with butter, creating a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Their iconic "S" shape, accented with raisins and a shiny egg wash glaze, makes them a stunning addition to any holiday table. Perfect for St. Lucia Day or any winter gathering, these homemade saffron buns pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or mulled wine. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a batch of warm, fragrant buns ready to share in just a few hours! Whether you’re embracing tradition or simply exploring new flavors, Saint Lucia Buns are a must-try seasonal delight.
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Ingredients
- 240 ml whole milk
- 0.5 teaspoons saffron threads
- 100 grams granulated sugar
- 7 grams active dry yeast
- 500 grams all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 75 grams unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 24 pieces raisins (optional, for garnish)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
Step 1
Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling (about 37°C/98°F). Remove from heat and stir in the saffron threads. Let the saffron steep in the warm milk for 10 minutes to release its color and flavor.
Step 2
Add 1 tablespoon of the sugar to the milk mixture and stir. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, confirming the yeast is active.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well.
Step 4
Add the saffron milk mixture, softened butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 5
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5-6 minutes.
Step 6
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 7
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope (about 25-30 cm) and shape them into an 'S' curl. Place the shaped buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 8
Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes, until slightly puffed.
Step 9
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 10
Press a raisin into the center of each curl in the 'S' shape, if desired. Brush the buns lightly with beaten egg for a glossy finish.
Step 11
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown on top.
Step 12
Cool the buns on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1050.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3119.3 |
| Total Fat 86.6g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 47.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.2g | |
| Cholesterol 599.0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1480.6mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 506.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 15.5g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 121.4g | |
| Protein 76.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 203.7IU | 0% |
| Calcium 452.3mg | 0% |
| Iron 25.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1297.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories