Brunsviger
A sweet, yeasted cake with a rich, gooey brown sugar and butter topping, often enjoyed as a treat or dessert. It's particularly popular in the Funen region of Denmark.

๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 75 g Granulated sugar(for the dough)
- 10 g Active dry yeast
- 250 ml Lukewarm milk
- 2 large Eggs(room temperature)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 100 g Unsalted butter(softened, for the dough)
- 200 g Brown sugar(packed, for the topping)
- 150 g Unsalted butter(melted, for the topping)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract(for the topping)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine lukewarm milk, 1 tsp of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
๐ก Tip: Ensure salt and yeast are not in direct contact initially - 3
Pour the yeast mixture into the well. Add the eggs and softened butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
๐ก Tip: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook is recommended - 4
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
๐ก Tip: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky - 5
Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. Punch down the risen dough and spread it evenly into the prepared pan.
๐ก Tip: You can use your fingertips to press the dough into the pan - 6
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well to form a gooey topping.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the brown sugar is well incorporated - 7
Pour the brown sugar mixture evenly over the dough. Use your fingers to create small indentations in the dough to help the topping soak in.
๐ก Tip: Don't press too hard, just enough to create pockets - 8
Bake in a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and the topping is bubbly.
๐ก Tip: Keep an eye on the topping to prevent burning - 9
Let the Brunsviger cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor an extra rich topping, you can add a tablespoon of rum or dark syrup.
- โEnsure your butter is at room temperature for the dough to incorporate properly.
- โBrunsviger is best enjoyed slightly warm.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the brown sugar topping.
- Include a sprinkle of cinnamon in the topping for added flavor.