Tweaked Traditional Cardamom Bread

Experience the irresistible aroma and tender crumb of Tweaked Traditional Cardamom Bread, a modern twist on a timeless Scandinavian favorite. This slightly sweet, buttery bread is infused with the warm, aromatic flavor of ground cardamom, creating a perfect balance of comforting spices and soft texture. Highlighted by its striking braided design, this recipe combines simple ingredients like milk, eggs, and flour with a dash of pearl sugar for optional crunch and sweetness. Ideal for brunch spreads, holiday feasts, or an afternoon treat, this crowd-pleasing loaf is as beautiful as it is delicious. With step-by-step instructions for kneading and braiding, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results. Serve warm from the oven, toasted with butter, or alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a truly cozy indulgence!

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 cup Whole milk
• 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 packet Active dry yeast
• 0.25 cup Warm water
• 2 pieces Large eggs
• 4.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Pearl sugar (optional)
• 1 piece Egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Remove from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar. Let the mixture cool until lukewarm.

Step 2

Dissolve the yeast in warm water in a small bowl and let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk mixture, yeast mixture, and eggs until combined.

Step 4

In another large bowl, combine the flour, ground cardamom, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Step 5

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 6

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 7

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 18 inches in length.

Step 8

Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal. Tuck the ends under the loaf to secure.

Step 9

Place the braided loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes.

Step 10

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 11

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. Brush the mixture over the loaf. If desired, sprinkle pearl sugar over the top for added sweetness and texture.

Step 12

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 13

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1235g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3448.4

Total Fat 100.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 52.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 773.3mg	0%
Sodium 2681.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 556.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.3g	0%
Total Sugars 138.7g
Protein 85.8g	0%

Vitamin D 228.4IU	0%
Calcium 493.6mg	0%
Iron 28.8mg	0%
Potassium 1354.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.0%

Protein: 9.9%

Carbs: 64.1%