Finnish Cardamon Bread Tree
Finnish Cardamon Bread Tree is a beautifully shaped, aromatic bread infused with warm spices and candied cherries, perfect for festive occasions and sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour and the yeast.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, sugar, butter, ground cinnamon, and salt just until warm (120-130°F), stirring constantly.
- Add the warm mixture to the flour mixture, along with the eggs.
- Beat with an electric mixer on low, scraping the sides constantly.
- Beat on high for 3 minutes.
- Stir in as much remaining flour as you can mix in with a spoon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. If you don't have candied cherries, chopped dried fruits or nuts can be excellent substitutes. For added texture, try incorporating a tablespoon of cardamom along with the cinnamon. Ensure the milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast, which is crucial for the bread's rise.
Serving Suggestions
This beautiful bread is perfect for festive occasions or brunch. Serve it warm, sliced, and accompanied by butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful dessert option, consider serving it alongside Love Puffs for a sweet treat experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Finnish Cardamon Bread Tree in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Finnish Cardamon Bread Tree contains roughly 940 calories, with 68g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (166% of the Daily Value), protein (135% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1077mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. However, this may slightly alter the texture, making it denser.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. It's important to avoid overbaking to maintain moisture.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape it and refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking. This method can enhance the flavor and is convenient for busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).