How to Make Sweet Saffron Buns - A Step-by-Step Guide

Sweet saffron buns, also known as "Lussekatter" in Sweden, are a beloved pastry traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season, especially on Saint Lucia's Day. These golden, saffron-infused buns are a perfect combination of sweet, rich, and aromatic flavors that make them a delight to savor. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a warm, comforting treat, these delicious buns are sure to please your taste buds.

Despite their fancy appearance, sweet saffron buns...

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Ingredients

  • ½ cup boiling water
  • ½ teaspoon saffron
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 (2 ounce) package cake yeast
  • ¼ cup warm water
  • 1 pinch white sugar
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups milk
  • ¾ cup shortening, melted and cooled
  • 1 tablespoon lemon extract
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 2 eggs, at room temperature
  • 8 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup dried currants

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 35 mins
  • Additional Time: 9 hrs 35 mins
  • Total Time: 10 hrs 40 mins
  • Servings: 24
  • Yield: 24 servings

  • Combine 1/2 cup boiling water, saffron, and 1 pinch salt in a small bowl; steep for 8 hours to overnight.
  • Crumble yeast into a small bowl; add 1/4 cup warm water and 1 pinch sugar.
  • Mix 1 cup sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoon salt, and nutmeg in a large bowl.
  • Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to bubble, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat; allow to cool for 5 minutes.
  • Beat saffron water, scalded milk, shortening, lemon extract, and lemon zest together in a bowl. Add eggs; stir to combine.
  • Pour yeast mixture and milk mixture into sugar mixture; mix well. Add flour 1/2 cup at a time; mix after each addition until incorporated. Stir in raisins and currants. Knead dough well; transfer to a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow dough to rise until doubled in size, 1 to 2 hours.
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two 9x12-inch baking pans.
  • Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; divide in half. Form each half into 12 equal balls; arrange in prepared baking pans. Allow dough to rise again, 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until golden, about 30 minutes.
  • Nutrition

    307 cal.

    • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 18mg
    • Sodium: 168mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 52g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 18g
    • Protein: 7g
    • Vitamin C: 1mg
    • Calcium: 41mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 186mg