If you're on the hunt for a treat that fills your kitchen with the warm, spicy aroma of cardamom, look no further than these delightful Cardamom Buns. Perfectly plush and lightly sweet, they're an ideal cozy-up snack for chilly days.
All-purpose flour forms the base of your dough, providing structure and lightness. Granulated sugar not only sweetens the dough but also helps it to brown nicely. A pinch of salt balances the flavors, while active dry yeast gives the buns their fluff by making them rise. The star of the show, ground cardamom, lends a unique, aromatic spice that's slightly sweet and floral.
Whole milk adds moisture and richness, while unsalted butter contributes to a tender crumb. A large egg helps bind everything together, giving the buns their soft texture. For the filling, light brown sugar pairs with ground cinnamon to create that classic sweet-spice swirl. Finally, a sprinkle of pearl sugar tops it all off, adding a delightful crunch.
Try serving these buns warm with a dollop of clotted cream or a smear of soft butter. They pair wonderfully with a spiced tea or a creamy chai latte, enhancing the cardamom's floral notes.
Start by mixing your dry ingredients in a large bowl—flour, sugar, salt, yeast, and cardamom. This way, everything is evenly distributed from the get-go. Gently warm the milk in a small saucepan over low heat, just until it's lukewarm. Add softened butter to the milk, stirring until it's melted.
Pour the milk mixture and a beaten egg into the flour blend. Stir until a dough begins to form. Turn this dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8–10 minutes. You're looking for a smooth, elastic texture.
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. It should double in size. While waiting, mix your brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out to a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Brush a layer of melted butter across the surface, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, and slice into 12 equal pieces.
Place these cut buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them, and allow a second rise for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle generously with pearl sugar. Bake for 20–25 minutes until they're a lovely golden brown.
Let them cool slightly before you dive in. Trust me, the wait is worth it!