Finnish Pulla (Sweet Cardamom Bread)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Finnish Pulla (Sweet Cardamom Bread).

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious baking adventure, grab a small saucepan and gently warm the milk over medium heat until it starts to bubble.

2. Step 2

   Once it’s bubbling, take it off the heat and let it cool down until it’s just lukewarm.

3. Step 3

   Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix together warm water and yeast, allowing it to sit for about five minutes.

4. Step 4

   This waiting time is crucial as it helps the yeast soften and develop a lovely creamy foam, which is the magic that makes your bread rise.

5. Step 5

   Next, stir in the lukewarm milk, sugar, four beaten eggs, salt, and a hint of cardamom into the yeast mixture.

6. Step 6

   Gradually add in two cups of flour, mixing until everything is well combined.

7. Step 7

   Then, add three more cups of flour and keep beating until your dough becomes smooth and elastic.

8. Step 8

   This is where the fun begins! Now, pour in the melted butter and continue to beat until your dough shines with a glossy finish.

9. Step 9

   Mix in the remaining flour until the dough feels nice and stiff.

10. Step 10

    Once your dough is ready, transfer it to a floured surface and cover it with an inverted mixing bowl.

11. Step 11

    Let it rest for about 15 minutes; this little break helps the gluten relax.

12. Step 12

    After resting, knead the dough until it’s smooth and satiny.

13. Step 13

    Place it in a lightly greased mixing bowl, turning it to coat all sides.

14. Step 14

    Cover it with a dish towel and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take about an hour.

15. Step 15

    After the first rise, gently punch down the dough and let it rise again until it’s almost doubled, which will take another hour.

16. Step 16

    While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and grease two baking sheets to prepare for the deliciousness to come.

17. Step 17

    Once the dough has risen beautifully, turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into three equal pieces.

18. Step 18

    Each piece will then be divided into thirds.

19. Step 19

    Roll each of these smaller pieces into strips that are 12 to 16 inches long, and then braid three strips together to create a lovely loaf.

20. Step 20

    Place your braided creations onto the prepared baking sheets, cover them with a dish towel, and let them rise for another 20 minutes.

21. Step 21

    As your loaves are rising, whisk together one egg and a tablespoon of water in a small bowl.

22. Step 22

    This mixture will give your loaves a beautiful golden finish.

23. Step 23

    After the final rise, brush this egg wash over the loaves and sprinkle a little sugar on top for that extra touch of sweetness.

24. Step 24

    Now it’s time to bake! Place your loaves in the preheated oven and let them bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are a gorgeous golden brown.

25. Step 25

    Keep an eye on them to ensure the bottoms don’t burn.

26. Step 26

    Once they’re done, let the aroma fill your kitchen and enjoy the fruits of your labor!.