Traditional Finnish Pulla Bread Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup of milk
1/4 cup of warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
1/2 cup of white sugar
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom
2 eggs, beaten
4 1/2 cups of bread flour
1/4 cup of butter, melted and cooled
1 egg, beaten (for glaze)
1 tablespoon of white sugar (for topping)
1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom (for topping)

Steps and instructions

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine yeast mixture, milk, sugar, salt, cardamom, 2 eggs, and 2 cups of flour; stir well to combine.
Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal pieces and form into loaves. Place the loaves into two lightly greased 9x5 inch loaf pans. Cover the loaves with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a small bowl, beat together 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom. Brush the risen loaves with this mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the bottom of the loaves sound hollow when tapped. Let cool on wire racks.

Tools for making

Mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons - Used to accurately measure the ingredients.
Whisk - To combine the ingredients smoothly.
Dough scraper - Helps in manipulating the dough during kneading.
Floured surface - A clean and lightly floured surface for kneading the dough.
Baking pans - Two 9x5 inch loaf pans to shape the dough into loaves.
Pastry brush - To brush the beaten egg, sugar, and cardamom mixture on top of the risen loaves.
Wire racks - Used to cool the baked Pulla loaves.
Damp cloth - To cover the dough and loaves while rising.
Oven - Preheat to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) to bake the Pulla.

Recipe variations

Replace white sugar with brown sugar for a slightly richer flavor.
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a hint of vanilla flavor.
Mix in raisins or dried cranberries to the dough for added sweetness and texture.
Sprinkle sliced almonds or pearl sugar on top of the loaves before baking for a crunchy crust.
Use whole wheat flour or a mixture of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Replace the cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg for a different spice profile.
Make a savory version by omitting the sugar and cardamom, and adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
Create a fruit-filled variation by spreading a layer of your favorite jam or preserves on the dough before rolling it up.
For a vegan option, substitute the milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil, and use a plant-based egg replacer.

Recipe overview

Pulla, a traditional Finnish sweet bread, is a delightful pastry perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Infused with the unique flavor of cardamom, this bread is lightly sweet and perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee or tea. This recipe will guide you through creating your own Pulla at home. Expect a wonderfully soft, slightly sweet bread with a beautiful golden crust, lightly spiced with cardamom. The process includes kneading and allowing the dough to rise twice, so it does require some patience, but the wonderfully aromatic and flavorful end result is worth the wait!

Common questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the proofing time as instant yeast tends to activate more quickly.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for bread flour. Keep in mind that the texture and taste of the pulla may be slightly different.
Can I make pulla without cardamom?
Cardamom adds a distinct flavor to pulla, but if you don't have it or prefer not to use it, you can omit it from the recipe. The bread will still be delicious.
How can I store pulla?
Once cooled, you can store pulla in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for longer storage.
Can I use a bread machine to make pulla?
Yes, you can use a bread machine to prepare the dough. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the order of ingredients and the dough cycle. Once the dough is ready, shape it into loaves and proceed with the recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowls - Needed for combining ingredients and kneading the dough.
Whisk - Useful for mixing the ingredients together.
Measuring cups and spoons - Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients.
Bread pans - Required for shaping and baking the dough into loaves.
Basting brush - Used to brush the egg glaze onto the risen loaves before baking.
Wire racks - Used for cooling the baked Pulla loaves.
Damp cloth - Used to cover the dough during rising.
Dough scraper - Useful for scraping the dough off the work surface and dividing it into equal pieces.
Oven - Required for baking the Pulla loaves.

Origin stories

Ah, the humble Pulla, a traditional Finnish bread! In the heart of winter, when the Finnish landscape is blanketed in snow and the northern lights dance across the sky, there's nothing quite as comforting as a steamy mug of coffee paired with a slice of sweet, cardamom-infused Pulla. This bread is deeply woven into Finnish culture, present at every celebration and gathering. It's often said that in Finland, the scent of cardamom means you're home. Indeed, the aroma of Pulla baking is a signal of hospitality, a warm welcome to guests. Sharing Pulla is not merely about enjoying a sweet treat, it is a cherished ritual, a symbol of kinship. So the next time you bite into a piece of Pulla, remember, you're partaking in a timeless Finnish tradition that's as soulful as the quiet, serene Finnish countryside.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.