Saffransbullar

Saffransbullar

Lussekatter / Saffransbullar (SAH-frahns-BOO-lar)

Saffron Buns (Lussekatter)

Prep Time 2 hours
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
12
🔥 Calories 282 kcal

Golden, saffron-scented S-shaped buns studded with raisins, baked for Saint Lucia Day and the Swedish Advent season.

Nutrition & Info

280 kcal per serving
Protein 6.0g
Carbs 42.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten ⚠ dairy ⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

stand mixer baking sheet mortar and pestle

Presentation Guide

Vessel: woven basket or wooden board

Garnishes: raisins

Accompaniments: coffee, glögg (mulled wine)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Crush saffron with a pinch of sugar using a mortar and pestle. Dissolve in warm milk.

  2. 2

    Mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add saffron milk, egg, and softened butter. Knead 10 min until smooth and elastic.

  3. 3

    Cover and let rise 1 hour until doubled.

  4. 4

    Divide into 12 pieces. Roll each into a rope and shape into an S-curve or figure eight.

  5. 5

    Press raisins into the curves. Place on lined baking sheets, cover, and rise 30 min.

  6. 6

    Brush with egg glaze. Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 10-12 min until golden. Cool on a rack.

💡

Did You Know?

On December 13, the eldest daughter in Swedish families traditionally dresses in white with a crown of candles and serves lussekatter to the family at dawn.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • stand mixer
  • baking sheet
  • mortar and pestle

Garnishing

raisins

Accompaniments

coffee, glögg (mulled wine)

The Story Behind Saffransbullar

Lussekatter (Lucia cats) are baked for Saint Lucia Day on December 13, a festival of light in the darkest time of year. The saffron-yellow colour symbolises the return of light. The tradition blends pre-Christian winter solstice celebrations with the legend of Saint Lucia.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed saint lucia day (december 13), advent 📜 Origins: Medieval

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