Ingredients:
For the Dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
For the Filling:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
For the Glaze:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped pistachios or almonds (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Process:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, ground cardamom, and salt.
2. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Buns
1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
4. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal-sized pieces.
Step 4: Bake the Buns
1. Place the cut buns in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each bun for rising.
2. Cover the baking dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the buns rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly in the baking dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm buns.
Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes:
- Yeast Activation: Ensure that the milk is warmed to around 110°F to activate the yeast properly. Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, while cooler temperatures may not activate it.
- Rolling Technique: When rolling up the dough, make sure to roll it tightly to create well-defined swirls in the buns.
- Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place to ensure proper fermentation. The dough should double in size during both the first and second rises.
- Baking Temperature: Bake the buns at the specified temperature to ensure even cooking and a golden brown crust.
- Glazing: Apply the glaze while the buns are still warm to allow it to seep into the crevices and enhance the flavor of the buns.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the filling by adding nuts, raisins, or other spices such as nutmeg or cloves to suit your taste preferences.