20+ Recipe For Norwegian Christmas Bread With Cardamom Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 12, 2024
When it comes to Christmas in Norway, there is one recipe that is a must-have on every table – Norwegian Christmas bread with cardamom. This traditional bread, also known as Julekake, is a staple in Norwegian households during the holiday season. Its warm, spicy flavor and soft, fluffy texture make it the perfect accompaniment to a cup of hot cocoa or coffee on a cold winter's day. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of this beloved bread and provide a step-by-step recipe for you to try at home.
Julekake, also known as Julekaga, is a traditional Norwegian Christmas bread that is usually served during the holiday season. It is a sweet and rich bread made with flour, milk, butter, eggs, sugar, and various spices. The bread is typically shaped into a wreath or a loaf and is often decorated with raisins, almonds, or candied fruits. Julekake is a staple in Norwegian households during Christmas, and it's not hard to see why - its warm and comforting flavors make it the perfect treat for the holiday season.
In Norway, there are two versions of Julekake - one made with eggs and one without. The version with eggs is known as Julekake, while the one without eggs is called Julekaga. The addition of eggs makes the bread richer and fluffier, while the version without eggs is denser and has a longer shelf life. Both versions are equally delicious, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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Julekake or Julekaga – Norwegian Christmas Bread (Egg...
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Sugar, Salt, Cardamom, Milk, Water
In some parts of Norway, Julekake is known as Julekage. This is because the word "kage" means cake in Danish, and there is significant Danish influence in certain regions of Norway. Regardless of what it's called, one thing is for sure - this bread is a beloved Christmas tradition in many Scandinavian countries.
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Julekake or Julekage – Norwegian Christmas Bread...
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Sugar, Salt, Cardamom, Butter
While Julekake is the most popular Christmas bread in Norway, there are other variations that are also enjoyed during the holiday season. For example, Julebrød is a similar bread that is often filled with nuts and candied fruits. It is also shaped into a wreath and makes for a stunning centerpiece on the Christmas dinner table.
To make traditional Julekake, you will need flour, milk, butter, eggs, sugar, and a variety of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The dough is typically kneaded by hand and left to rise for a few hours before being shaped into a wreath or a loaf and baked in the oven. The result is a deliciously soft and fragrant bread that will fill your home with the most delightful aroma.
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Norwegian Christmas Bread (Julekake)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Bread Flour, Sugar
If you're feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different fillings and toppings for your Julekake. Some popular additions include raisins, almonds, candied fruits, and even chocolate chips. You can also glaze the bread with a simple sugar glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Julebrød, also known as Julebrødkake, is another must-try Norwegian Christmas bread. This bread is typically made with a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, giving it a heartier and more rustic texture. It is also filled with nuts, raisins, and candied fruits, making it a flavorful and satisfying treat.
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Julebrød; a “must bake” Norwegian Christmas Bread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Almond Milk, Dry Yeast, Sugar, Ground Cardamom
Viennese Christmas bread, also known as Wiener Christstollen, is a popular holiday bread in Austria and other European countries. It is similar to traditional German Stollen, but with a Viennese twist. The bread is filled with marzipan, nuts, and raisins and is often dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
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Viennese Christmas Bread
Main Ingredients: Dried Cranberries, Rum, Warm Water, Active Dry Yeast
This version of Julekake is perfect for those who love a little extra sweetness in their bread. The addition of raisins and candied fruits adds a burst of flavor and texture to the bread, making it perfect for snacking or as a dessert. Serve it warm with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday treat.
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Julekake (Norwegian Christmas Bread with Raisins and...
Main Ingredients: Butter, Milk, Cardamom Seeds, Active Dry Yeast, Sugar
Yulekaga is a traditional Scandinavian Christmas bread that is usually enjoyed on Christmas morning. It is made with flour, milk, butter, eggs, and sugar, and is often flavored with cardamom and saffron. The bread is typically shaped into a wreath and decorated with various toppings such as nuts, dried fruits, and pearl sugar.
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Yulekaga (Scandinavian Christmas Bread)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Granulated
Stollen is a traditional German Christmas bread that is often enjoyed during the holiday season. It is a rich and buttery bread filled with nuts, raisins, and candied fruits, and is often dusted with powdered sugar. This authentic recipe will transport you straight to the Christmas markets of Germany.
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BEST Authentic Stollen (German Christmas Bread)
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Granulated Sugar, All
If you're looking for a simple and straightforward Julekake recipe, this one is for you. Made with basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, this bread is easy to make and will be a hit with your family and friends. Serve it warm with a spread of butter or jam for a cozy and delicious holiday treat.
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the flavors of Julekake, this quick and easy recipe is for you. Using store-bought bread dough and a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious Julekake ready in no time. This is a great option for those who are new to bread baking or are looking for a shortcut during the busy holiday season.
If you're looking for a unique and delightful Christmas cookie, try these Danish Christmas cardamom cookies. Made with butter, sugar, flour, and ground cardamom, these cookies have a delicate and aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. They are also great as edible gifts for your loved ones.
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Danish Christmas Cardamom Cookie
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Sugar, Cardamom, Flour, Ground Almonds
Kringla is a traditional Norwegian Christmas cookie that is often enjoyed during the holiday season. These buttery and delicate cookies are shaped into pretzel-like knots and topped with pearl sugar or chopped almonds. They are easy to make and are great for sharing with family and friends.
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The Hirshon Norwegian Christmas Sugar Cookies – Kringla
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Full Fat Sour Cream, Egg Yolks, Flour
Christmas cake, also known as fruitcake, is a popular holiday dessert in many countries. It is made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices and is often soaked in alcohol for added richness and flavor. This dense and flavorful cake is a staple in many households during Christmas and is often served with a warm custard or brandy sauce.
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional Christmas treats, try these Christmas date balls. Made with dates, nuts, and spices, these no-bake balls are the perfect guilt-free treat for the holiday season. They are also great for snacking on the go or as a post-workout snack.
Christmas plum cake, also known as Dundee cake, is a Scottish Christmas tradition. It is a rich and flavorful cake made with dried fruits, almonds, and spices, and is often served with a cup of tea or coffee. This cake is a great option for those who prefer a fruitcake without the heavy alcohol taste.
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Christmas Plum Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Brown Sugar, Butter, Fruits, Cocoa
Peanut brittle is a classic holiday treat that is loved by many. This sweet and crunchy confection is made with sugar, corn syrup, and peanuts and is perfect for snacking on during Christmas movie marathons or as a homemade gift for your friends and family. You can also experiment with different types of nuts or add a drizzle of chocolate for a decadent touch.
The use of cardamom in Norwegian Christmas bread can be traced back to the 16th century when it was introduced to Norway through trade with the Middle East. This aromatic spice quickly became a popular addition to traditional bread recipes, adding a warm and slightly sweet flavor. Today, cardamom is still a key ingredient in Norwegian Christmas bread, and its presence is what sets it apart from other holiday breads.
The Significance of Christmas Bread in Norwegian Culture
In Norway, bread is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Therefore, it is no surprise that it has become an essential part of Christmas celebrations. In the past, bread was only baked for special occasions, such as Christmas, due to its time-consuming process. It was also believed that the quality of the bread reflected the baker's skills and their family's status. Therefore, Christmas bread was made with great care and attention to detail, making it a true labor of love.
How to Make Norwegian Christmas Bread with Cardamom
Ingredients: 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cardamom, 2 eggs, 4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast, 1/4 cup dried currants, 1/4 cup raisins, 1/4 cup candied orange peel, 1/4 cup slivered almonds.
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, salt, cardamom, and eggs. Add in the cooled milk and butter mixture and mix well.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and yeast. Slowly add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about an hour.
Punch down the dough and knead in the dried fruit and almonds. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until it is golden brown. Let it cool before serving.
Pro Tip: For an extra festive touch, you can shape the dough into a braided wreath or add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before baking.
Now that you have the recipe for this delicious Norwegian Christmas bread, it's time to put on your apron and get baking. With its rich history and warm, comforting flavors, it's no wonder that this bread has become a beloved tradition in Norwegian households. So go ahead and add it to your holiday menu, and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!
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