Swedish Cinnamon Rolls (Kanelbullar)
In Sweden, cinnamon rolls are more than a sweet treat—they’re a cultural institution. Known as kanelbullar, these fragrant, lightly sweetened buns are a staple of fika, the beloved Swedish coffee break that’s all about slowing down and enjoying life.
Unlike American cinnamon rolls, Swedish cinnamon rolls are less sugary, gently spiced, and often twisted rather than rolled. They rely on aromatic cardamom and cinnamon for flavor instead of thick icing, making them perfect for everyday enjoyment.
What Makes Swedish Cinnamon Rolls Different?
Swedish kanelbullar stand apart in several key ways:
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Less sweet dough
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No heavy frosting (usually topped with pearl sugar)
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Cardamom in the dough
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Crisp edges with a soft center
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Twisted or knotted shape
The result is a roll that’s aromatic, balanced, and ideal with coffee or tea.
Authentic Swedish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 20–24 buns)
Dough
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1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
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75 g unsalted butter
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2¼ tsp dry yeast (1 packet)
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¼ cup (50 g) sugar
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1 tsp salt
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1½ tsp ground cardamom
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3½–4 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
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75 g unsalted butter, softened
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⅓ cup brown sugar
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1½ tbsp ground cinnamon
Topping
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1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
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Pearl sugar (or coarse sugar)
Method
1. Prepare the Dough
Heat milk until warm (not hot) and melt the butter into it. Let cool slightly. Stir in yeast and allow to activate for 5 minutes.
Add sugar, salt, cardamom, and flour gradually. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Shape the Buns
Roll the dough into a rectangle about ½ cm thick. Spread filling evenly over the surface.
Fold the dough in half lengthwise, cut into strips, twist each strip, and coil into a knot. Place on lined baking trays.
4. Second Rise
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
5. Bake
Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Brush buns with beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Serving & Storage
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Best enjoyed warm, the same day
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Freeze well for up to 2 months
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Reheat gently in the oven
In Sweden, kanelbullar are traditionally served without icing—just coffee and good company.
Kanelbullens Dag (Cinnamon Roll Day)
Sweden even celebrates Cinnamon Roll Day every year on October 4th, honoring the country’s love for this iconic bun.
Final Thoughts
Swedish cinnamon rolls are about balance, warmth, and simplicity. Lightly sweet, richly spiced, and deeply comforting, they reflect the essence of Scandinavian baking and the joy of fika.
Once you try authentic kanelbullar, it’s hard to go back.