RecipesFinlandKorvapuusti

Korvapuusti

A beloved Finnish cinnamon bun, known for its distinctive 'ear' shape and rich, cardamom-infused dough. Often enjoyed with coffee, it's a staple in Finnish bakeries and homes.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings12
DifficultyMedium
Korvapuusti - Finland traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g All-purpose flour
  • 250 ml Milk(lukewarm)
  • 1 sachet Active dry yeast((approx. 7g))
  • 100 g Granulated sugar
  • 100 g Unsalted butter(softened)
  • 2 tsp Cardamom(ground)
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • For the filling:
  • 75 g Unsalted butter(softened)
  • 75 g Brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp Ground cinnamon
  • For the topping:
  • 1 beaten Egg(for egg wash)
  • 2 tbsp Pearl sugar(for sprinkling)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk with the yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

    ⏱️ 10 minutes
  2. 2

    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, cardamom, and salt. Add the softened butter and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

    💡 Tip: You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this.
  3. 3

    Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 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.

    ⏱️ 1 hour
    💡 Tip: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
  4. 4

    While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by creaming together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the butter is soft but not melted.
  5. 5

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (approximately 30x40 cm) on a lightly floured surface.

    💡 Tip: Roll evenly to ensure consistent thickness.
  6. 6

    Spread the cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border along one long edge.

    💡 Tip: Don't overfill, as it can make the buns too greasy.
  7. 7

    Roll the dough up tightly from the long edge opposite the border. Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.

    💡 Tip: Use a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
  8. 8

    Place the slices cut-side up in a greased baking pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently press down on each bun to flatten slightly and create the 'ear' shape.

    💡 Tip: The characteristic 'ear' is made by pressing the center of the spiral down.
  9. 9

    Cover the buns and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

    ⏱️ 30 minutes
  10. 10

    Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Brush the risen buns with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle generously with pearl sugar.

    💡 Tip: Egg wash gives a lovely golden sheen.
  11. 11

    Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

    ⏱️ 15 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

  • Using good quality cardamom is essential for the authentic flavor.
  • Don't overwork the dough; a soft, slightly sticky dough yields tender buns.
  • Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to a light and airy texture.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a few raisins or chopped nuts to the filling.
  • Drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and a little milk or lemon juice after cooling.
  • Use a mix of brown and white sugar for the filling.

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