Semlor

Semlor – delicious Swedish cream-filled buns
Sweden
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Semlor are traditional Swedish cream-filled buns enjoyed especially during Lent. These delightful pastries, filled with almond paste and whipped cream, have a cultural significance as a festive treat that marks the transition into the fasting season. Typically enjoyed on Fat Tuesday, they are a beloved favorite among Swedes.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~320 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • For the Buns:
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 cup almond paste
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Garnish:
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.

Add the granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, salt, and ground cardamom to the yeast mixture. Mix well.

Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Bake the Buns

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.

Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the almond paste with the milk until smooth and spreadable.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Semlor

Once the buns are completely cool, cut off the top of each bun and set the tops aside.

Scoop out a small amount of the inside of each bun to create a hollow.

Fill each hollow with the almond paste mixture.

Pipe or spoon the whipped cream on top of the almond paste.

Place the reserved tops back on each bun.

Garnish and Serve

Dust the tops of the filled buns with powdered sugar.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Semlor?

Semlor are sweet, cardamom-spiced buns filled with almond paste and topped with whipped cream.

Where does Semlor come from?

Semlor originated in Sweden and have been a part of Swedish culinary tradition for centuries.

What are the main ingredients in Semlor?

Key ingredients include active dry yeast, warm milk, sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, salt, and ground cardamom.

How long does Semlor take to make?

Semlor take a total of 102-125 minutes to prepare and bake.

What do you serve with Semlor?

Semlor are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon treat.