Finnish Coffee Bread (Traditional)
Description: Originally featured in the Finnish Cookbook, this cherished recipe has become a staple of my Christmas breakfast tradition. Despite its time-consuming nature with three rises, the yield of three delectable coffee braids ensures there’s always one to savor, one for the freezer, and one to share with cherished friends. The prep time includes the approximate rising periods, contributing to the anticipation and aroma that fills the kitchen.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
Keywords: Breads, Finnish, Scandinavian, European, Weeknight, Oven, Stove Top
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 2038
- Fat Content: 48g
- Saturated Fat Content: 26.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 414.1mg
- Sodium Content: 1253.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 346.8g
- Fiber Content: 9.6g
- Sugar Content: 84.4g
- Protein Content: 51.5g
Yield: 3 coffee braids
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Packet active dry yeast |
| 1/2 cup | Warm water |
| 2 cups | Milk |
| 1 cup | Sugar |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 8-12 | Cardamom pods |
| 5 | Eggs |
| 8-10 cups | Flour |
| 1/2 cup | Butter or margarine |
| 1/4 cup | Sugar (for sprinkling) |
Instructions:
-
Activate Yeast:
- Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm water within a large bowl, ensuring it’s fully activated before proceeding.
-
Prepare Dough:
- Stir in the milk, sugar, salt, crushed cardamom pods, 4 eggs, and 2 cups of flour until a smooth dough forms.
-
Incorporate Flour:
- Gradually add 3 cups of flour, stirring well, then mix in the melted butter or margarine.
-
Adjust Consistency:
- Continue adding 2-3 cups of flour until the dough reaches a stiff consistency, ensuring thorough incorporation.
-
Knead and Rest:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and cover it with an inverted bowl, allowing it to rest for 15 minutes. Then, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and satiny, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes.
-
First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a large lightly greased bowl, turning it to coat the top with grease. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and/or a towel, and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, which typically takes 1-2 hours.
-
Shape the Braids:
- Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and let it rise again until almost doubled, which usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into thirds, working with one-third at a time.
-
Form Strands and Braid:
- Divide each one-third portion into three equal parts and roll them with your hands into 18-inch strands. Braid the three strands together to form a single braid, ensuring to tuck the ends under neatly.
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Final Rise:
- Place the braids on lightly greased cookie sheets and let them rise for 20-30 minutes, or until they appear puffy and slightly expanded.
-
Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the braids with beaten egg and sprinkle them with sugar for a delightful finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes or until the braids are beautifully golden brown.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the Finnish Coffee Bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving. This aromatic delight pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a comforting treat for any occasion.
-
Storage:
- Any leftover coffee braids can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for future enjoyment. Simply thaw and reheat gently before serving to retain their delightful freshness and flavor.
Embrace the heartwarming flavors and cherished traditions of Finnish cuisine with this delightful Finnish Coffee Bread recipe, guaranteed to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodness and create lasting memories with loved ones.
