Nisu(Finnish Coffee Cake)
A fragrant Finnish coffee cake featuring warm spices, sweet yeast dough, and rich butter, perfect for breakfast or tea with a distinctive cardamom flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, butter, ground cardamom, and salt together.
- Add hot, scalded milk to the mixture and let it cool.
- Dissolve active dry yeast in 1/3 cup warm water.
- Add the dissolved yeast and beaten eggs to the cooled mixture.
- Gradually add flour, working in well with a spoon.
- Knead with hands until the dough is firm and smooth.
- Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of scalded milk, and try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough. If you can't find cardamom seeds, ground cardamom works as a substitute, though the flavor may be slightly less intense. To test the yeast, ensure your warm water is around 110°F before adding it to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Nisu pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon treat. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of butter. Consider complementing it with a side of fresh fruit or browsing more vegetarian recipes to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, allow the Nisu to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nisu(Finnish Coffee Cake) contains roughly 2634 calories, with 209g protein, 355g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (483% of the Daily Value), protein (417% of the Daily Value), and iron (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2461mg per serving (107% 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 healthier option. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture of the cake slightly, making it denser. You may need to adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
How can I tell if the dough has risen properly?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels light and airy. You can also perform the finger test: gently poke the dough; if the indentation remains, it's risen enough. If it springs back, it needs more time.
Can I freeze Nisu for later use?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can wrap the Nisu tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
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).