Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns – Soft & Fluffy Cardamom Pastries

Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns are a delightful combination of soft, fluffy dough infused with cardamom, filled with silky vanilla custard and juicy raspberries. These buns are an irresistible treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast pastry, a midday snack, or an indulgent dessert, they are sure to impress with their perfect balance of flavors.

Originating from Scandinavian baking traditions, these buns are a twist on the classic Norwegian “Skolebrød” or school bread. Traditionally, Norwegian custard buns feature a simple vanilla custard filling, but this version enhances the experience by adding the tartness of raspberries. The slight tanginess of the fruit perfectly complements the rich, creamy custard, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.

What makes these buns even more special is the use of cardamom in the dough. This fragrant spice is a staple in Scandinavian baking, offering a warm, slightly citrusy aroma that enhances the overall taste of the pastry. The dough itself is enriched with eggs and butter, creating a soft and pillowy texture that melts in the mouth.

Baking these buns at home is a rewarding experience, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homemade pastries that surpass anything store-bought. They fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and bring a sense of accomplishment when you see them golden and beautifully puffed from the oven. Whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and fun to make. With step-by-step guidance, you will master the process of kneading, filling, and shaping the buns to perfection.

This detailed guide will take you through everything you need to know, from ingredients to baking tips, ensuring your buns turn out perfect every time. Prepare to enjoy one of the most delightful Scandinavian treats that will become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns is how they combine contrasting textures and flavors in a single bite. The soft, buttery dough, the creamy custard, and the tart raspberries come together to create a pastry that is both comforting and sophisticated.

If you love baking, this recipe offers a satisfying process, from watching the yeast work its magic in the dough to assembling the beautiful buns. The scent of cardamom and warm pastries baking in the oven is enough to make your kitchen feel like a cozy Scandinavian bakery.

These buns are also incredibly versatile. You can serve them warm, fresh out of the oven, or save them for later and enjoy them at room temperature. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk, making them an ideal breakfast or snack.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it allows for customization. While raspberries provide a lovely tartness, you can easily swap them out for other berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, or even chopped strawberries. You can also experiment with different fillings, like adding a hint of cinnamon to the sugar mixture or incorporating a touch of almond paste for an extra layer of flavor.

For those who enjoy sharing baked goods with friends and family, these buns are perfect. They are visually appealing, with their golden-brown crust, dusting of powdered sugar, and vibrant raspberry filling. Whether you are bringing them to a brunch gathering or gifting them to a loved one, they are sure to impress.

Most importantly, making these buns from scratch gives you full control over the ingredients. You can use high-quality butter, organic flour, and fresh eggs to create a treat that is both delicious and wholesome. Unlike store-bought pastries that may contain preservatives and artificial flavors, these homemade buns are made with love and natural ingredients.

Health Benefits

While Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns are an indulgent treat, they do offer some surprising health benefits thanks to their key ingredients.

Cardamom, a signature spice in the dough, is known for its digestive benefits. It can help reduce bloating, improve gut health, and even have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, it has been linked to better blood circulation and may support heart health.

Raspberries, the star of the filling, are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and they contain dietary fiber that aids in digestion. The natural tartness of raspberries also balances the sweetness of the custard, making these buns feel indulgent without being overly sugary.

The custard, made with eggs and milk, provides a good source of protein and calcium. Eggs contain essential amino acids and healthy fats that contribute to brain health, while milk adds calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone strength.

By making these buns at home, you can control the amount of sugar used and opt for high-quality ingredients. If you want to make them slightly healthier, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, reduce the sugar slightly, or use honey as a natural sweetener.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before diving into the recipe, here are the key details you need to know about preparation time, servings, and nutritional information.

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Baking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 12 buns

Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Bun):

• Calories: 290
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g

Ingredients List

To make these delightful Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns, gather the following ingredients.

The Dough:

• 1 ¼ cups whole milk (lukewarm)
• 4 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• ⅓ cup lightly salted butter (cut into small pieces)

The Filling:

• 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 ½ cups frozen raspberries (roughly chopped)

The Custard:

• 2 egg yolks (room temperature)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns involves several steps, but each one is straightforward and rewarding.

 1: Prepare the Dough

• Heat the milk until it is lukewarm, ensuring it is not too hot, as this can kill the yeast.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, sugar, yeast, ground cardamom, and salt.
• Add the warm milk and one of the eggs, kneading the mixture for about 8 minutes on low speed if using a stand mixer.
• Gradually add the softened butter, continuing to knead until the dough becomes elastic and smooth.
• Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about one hour, or until it has doubled in size.

 2: Prepare the Filling

• In a small bowl, mix the softened butter and brown sugar together until smooth.
• Roughly chop the frozen raspberries and set them aside.

3: Shape the Dough

• Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a 20×15-inch rectangle.
• Evenly spread the butter and sugar mixture over the dough, followed by the chopped raspberries.
• Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, then slice it into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife.

 4: Second Rise

• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the sliced buns, leaving space between them for expansion.
• Cover the tray with a clean kitchen towel and let the buns rise for another 40 minutes. This second proofing ensures they become light and fluffy once baked.

5: Prepare the Custard

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
• In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is warm but not boiling. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise, scrape the seeds into the milk, and add the pod for extra flavor. If using vanilla extract, wait to add it until later.
• Slowly pour a small amount of warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs. This prevents them from scrambling.
• Gradually add the rest of the milk while whisking, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using.
• Transfer the custard to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature.

 6: Make the Custard Wells in the Buns

• Once the buns have completed their second rise, use the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a small well in the center of each bun.
• Fill each well with about a tablespoon of the cooled custard. This ensures that the custard bakes directly into the bun, creating a creamy center.

 7: Egg Wash and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a small bowl, whisk the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water.
• Lightly brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
• Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the buns are golden brown and fully cooked. The custard should set but remain creamy.

 8: Cooling and Dusting

• Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Once they have cooled to a warm temperature, dust them with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

How to Serve

These Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns are best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm. The combination of the soft dough, creamy custard, and tart raspberries makes them irresistible.

For breakfast, pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of milk. The warm, spiced dough and the sweet filling provide a comforting start to the day. If serving them as an afternoon treat, enjoy them alongside a cup of tea. The lightness of herbal teas like chamomile or the robustness of black tea complements the sweetness of the buns beautifully.

If serving these buns for a special occasion, consider arranging them on a decorative platter with a drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried raspberries for an elegant presentation. You can also serve them with a side of fresh fruit or whipped cream to enhance the experience.

For a festive touch, serve them with a dollop of homemade raspberry jam on the side. This intensifies the raspberry flavor and adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Pairing Suggestions

These buns pair wonderfully with various beverages and accompaniments. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Coffee: A strong espresso, cappuccino, or a latte enhances the flavors of the cardamom-spiced dough. The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the custard.
• Tea: Earl Grey, chai, or green tea complement the buns, providing floral or spiced notes that harmonize with the cardamom and vanilla.
• Milk: A simple glass of cold milk is perfect for enjoying these buns as a nostalgic treat.
• Fruit Compote: Serve the buns with a side of warm berry compote for an extra burst of fruitiness.
• Whipped Cream or Clotted Cream: A light, airy topping makes these buns feel even more luxurious.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, storing these buns properly ensures they remain soft and delicious for later enjoyment.

Storage:

• Keep the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
• If refrigerating, store them in a sealed container for up to four days. Note that refrigeration may slightly dry out the dough.

Freezing:

• To freeze, place the completely cooled buns in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months.
• When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour.

Reheating:

• For the best results, warm the buns in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes.
• You can also microwave them for 20 to 30 seconds, but this may make the dough slightly softer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns turn out perfect, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Using milk that is too hot: If the milk is too warm, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising. Keep it lukewarm, around 100-110°F.
• Not allowing the dough to rise sufficiently: Rushing the proofing process will result in dense buns. Always allow the dough to double in size.
• Overfilling the buns: Adding too much custard can cause it to overflow during baking, making a mess on the baking sheet. Stick to about a tablespoon per bun.
• Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash gives the buns their golden, bakery-style appearance. Don’t skip this step.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out the dough. Keep an eye on the buns and remove them once they turn golden brown.

Pro Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps with even mixing and improves the dough’s texture.
• Knead the dough well: If kneading by hand, do so for at least 10 minutes to develop the gluten, which creates a soft, elastic dough.
• Use fresh yeast: Expired or inactive yeast will prevent the dough from rising properly. Always check the expiration date before using.
• Let the custard cool completely: Adding hot custard to the buns can make the dough too soft and affect the texture.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding a touch of orange zest to the dough or swapping the raspberries for blueberries or cherries for a different variation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before shaping and filling.

2. Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, but do not thaw them before using. Thawed raspberries release too much liquid, which can make the dough soggy.

3. What can I use instead of cardamom?
If you don’t have cardamom, cinnamon or nutmeg can be used as alternatives.

4. Can I make these without custard?
Yes, you can skip the custard and simply fill the buns with raspberries and sugar for a fruitier version.

5. Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is ideal, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Norwegian Raspberry Custard Buns are a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that make them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply as a weekend indulgence, they bring joy and warmth to the table.

Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s time to start baking. Try this recipe and experience the magic of homemade Scandinavian pastries. If you do, share your results, post a picture, and let others know how much you enjoyed them. Happy baking!

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