How to Make Delicious Swedish Cardamom Buns: A Perfect Coffee Companion
Swedish Cardamom Buns, also known as "Kardemummabullar," are a beloved pastry throughout Scandinavia. With their soft, sweet dough and aromatic cardamom flavor, these buns are the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. They’re fluffy, golden, and bursting with flavor, making them a great addition to any breakfast or afternoon snack.
In 2026, this Swedish classic has taken the spotlight as one of the new favorites on Taste of Home, and it’s easy to see why. If you love baked goods that are both comforting and flavorful, these cardamom buns are a must-try!
What Makes Swedish Cardamom Buns So Special?
Swedish Cardamom Buns are a traditional Swedish pastry, often enjoyed with coffee as part of the Swedish “fika” culture, which is a cherished ritual of taking time to relax and enjoy a coffee break. These buns are different from other sweet rolls because of the unique, fragrant cardamom spice that infuses the dough, creating a warm and comforting aroma as they bake.
What makes them even better is the fluffy, slightly sweet dough that coils into a spiral shape, with the cardamom filling sandwiched between layers. When baked, they turn a golden brown and become irresistibly soft and pillowy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious buns, gather the following ingredients:
- For the dough: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- Active dry yeast: 1 packet (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- Warm milk: 1 cup
- Butter: ½ cup, softened
- Sugar: ¼ cup
- Egg: 1 large egg
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Ground cardamom: 2 teaspoons (this is the star ingredient!)
- For the filling: ¼ cup softened butter, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons sugar
- For the egg wash: 1 egg (beaten) for brushing
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Swedish Cardamom Buns
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Stir in the sugar, salt, cardamom, and egg. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together.
Once the dough is combined, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add the softened butter a little at a time and continue kneading until the butter is fully incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, sugar, and ground cinnamon to create the filling. Set it aside until you are ready to use it.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-butter filling evenly over the dough.
Starting at one long edge, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking pan, leaving some space between each bun.
Step 5: Let the Buns Rise Again
Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while they’re rising.
Step 6: Bake the Buns
Brush the tops of the buns with a beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Once the buns have cooled slightly, enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm, spicy aroma and soft texture make them irresistible!
Tips for Making the Perfect Swedish Cardamom Buns
- Use fresh yeast: For the best rise and texture, make sure your yeast is fresh. If you’re using active dry yeast, activate it in warm milk to ensure it’s working properly.
- Adjust the cardamom: If you prefer a more intense cardamom flavor, feel free to add an extra teaspoon to the dough or the filling.
- Try adding icing: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the buns after baking.
- Freeze for later: You can freeze these buns before or after baking. Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to a month.
Why You Should Make Swedish Cardamom Buns
These buns are not just about flavor — they’re about tradition, culture, and creating memories. The combination of soft, buttery dough and aromatic cardamom makes each bite a comforting experience. Plus, the baking process fills your home with an irresistible fragrance that’s sure to make your family or guests feel cozy and cared for.
If you love baking and want to try something new, Swedish Cardamom Buns are the perfect recipe to impress your friends and family. They’re also a great way to bring a taste of Swedish fika to your home!






