Semlor, also known as Swedish Cream Buns, are a traditional Swedish pastry typically enjoyed before Lent. They feature a soft, cardamom-scented bun filled with almond paste and whipped cream. These sweet buns are indulgent and perfect for a cozy treat. Here’s how to make them:
Semlor (Swedish Cream Buns)
Ingredients for the Buns:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 large egg (for brushing)
Ingredients for the Filling:
- 1/2 cup almond paste (you can find this at specialty or grocery stores)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for the whipped cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough for the Buns:
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until warm (around 110°F/43°C). Add the butter and stir until it’s melted, then remove from heat. Let the mixture cool until it’s just warm to the touch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, yeast, cardamom, and salt.
- Pour the warm milk and butter mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a spoon or dough hook attachment (if using a stand mixer) until a soft dough forms. Continue kneading for about 5-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Shape and Bake the Buns:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch the dough down to release the air and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let the buns rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, until they have puffed up.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the buns for a golden finish when baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the almond paste, powdered sugar, and milk. Mix until smooth and well combined to create an almond paste filling.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Semlor:
- Once the buns have cooled, slice the top third off each bun and set it aside (these will be the “lids”).
- Hollow out a small amount of the inside of each bun, creating a space for the almond paste filling.
- Fill the hollowed-out buns with the almond paste mixture.
- Top with a generous amount of whipped cream.
- Place the “lid” back on top of each bun.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving:
Serve the semlor immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to a couple of days. These buns are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea and are a delightful treat to celebrate Swedish tradition.
Enjoy your homemade Semlor! They’re the perfect combination of soft, spiced buns, sweet almond paste, and rich whipped cream—simple but irresistible!