Finnish Coffee Bread("Nisu")
Finnish Coffee Bread, or Nisu, is a fragrant, lightly sweetened bread infused with cardamom, perfect for breakfast or tea time, with a soft crumb and a glossy finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water.
- Scald milk and add sugar, salt, and butter.
- Cool the mixture to lukewarm, similar temperature to yeast.
- Add yeast to the milk mixture.
- Add 4 cups of flour to make a sponge and beat thoroughly.
- Let the sponge rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Add well-beaten eggs and ground cardamom.
- Add flour gradually until the dough is stiff enough to knead.
- Let the dough rise again until nearly double in size.
- Turn onto a floured board and knead for a few minutes.
- Divide and shape the dough into 4 braided loaves.
- Let the loaves rise to double size.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Remove from oven and brush with a syrup made from 1 tablespoon water and 2 tablespoons sugar.
- Sprinkle with coarse sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of 2% or skim. If you want a more pronounced cardamom taste, increase the amount slightly. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising. If you find the dough too sticky, add a little more flour gradually until it's manageable. You can also make smaller loaves or rolls if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Finnish Coffee Bread warm, brushed with syrup and sprinkled with coarse sugar for a delightful touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete breakfast, enjoy it alongside Cucumber Cream Cheese Sandwiches or a refreshing Delicious Strawberry Milkshake. This bread also makes a lovely addition to brunch tables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Finnish Coffee Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Finnish Coffee Bread("Nisu") contains roughly 481 calories, with 9g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2026mg per serving (88% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients without dissolving it first. However, the rising times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the dough.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or cold temperatures. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area. If all else fails, gently knead in a bit more yeast dissolved in water.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can incorporate raisins, nuts, or even chocolate chips for added flavor. Just keep in mind that this may affect the texture and moisture of the bread, so adjust flour accordingly.
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).