Semlor

"Semla" is a traditional Swedish pastry that is commonly associated with Shrove Tuesday (Fettisdagen) or Mardi Gras. It consists of a cardamom-spiced wheat bun, often sliced from the top, filled with almond paste, and topped with whipped cream. The bun's top is usually dusted with powdered sugar.

Ingredients

For the Buns:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup almond paste
  • 1/2 cup milk

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Prepare the Buns:

  • In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the yeast mixture, salt, cardamom, and flour. Knead the dough until smooth.
  • Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into round buns. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Brush the buns with beaten egg and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool.

Prepare the Filling:

In a bowl, mix almond paste with enough milk to create a spreadable consistency. Adjust the milk quantity as needed.

Assemble the Semlor:

  • Slice off the tops of the cooled buns and set them aside.
  • Hollow out the center of each bun and fill it with the almond paste mixture.
  • Pipe or spoon whipped cream on top of the almond paste.
  • Place the tops back on the buns.

Finish:

  • Dust the Semlor with powdered sugar before serving.
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