St. Lucia Saffron Buns, known as Lussekatter, are a delightful culinary treat that transport you to the heart of Scandinavia. Traditionally baked to celebrate St. Lucia Day, these soft, golden buns not only taste divine but also embody the spirit of festivity and warmth. The gently sweet aroma of saffron combined with the richness of butter creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for brunch or an afternoon coffee break. With a straightforward recipe, you’re just a few ingredients away from enjoying this luscious pastry.

The appeal of St. Lucia Saffron Buns lies not only in their unique flavor but also in their intricate appearance. Shaped into charming “S” twists or figure-eights and adorned with golden raisins, these buns are not only a visual feast but also provide a comforting bite with every piece. Whether you’re celebrating St. Lucia Day or simply indulging in some homemade pastries, these saffron-infused delights will bring warmth and joy to your kitchen and your table.

Why You’ll Love This St. Lucia Saffron Buns

Delicious Flavor: The delicate saffron flavor combined with sweet dough makes for a unique and tasty treat.
Festive Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, these buns will impress your guests.
Versatility: Enjoy them as a breakfast item, afternoon snack, or dessert; they fit a variety of occasions.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up with ease!
Economical: Made with basic pantry staples, they are an affordable indulgence without compromising on flavor.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delightful world of St. Lucia Saffron Buns, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and tools. Begin by gathering your ingredients—saffron threads, whole milk, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, unsalted butter, eggs, raisins, and pearl sugar if desired. Make sure your workspace is tidy and conducive to baking; clear off countertops and equip yourself with measuring cups, mixing bowls, a whisk, a rolling pin, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

This recipe calls for some kneading, so if you have a stand mixer, feel free to use it with a dough hook attachment. Otherwise, your hands will be your best tools—not only are they perfect for mixing and kneading the dough, but they also add a personal touch to your baking process. Lastly, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for baking the buns once they have risen beautifully.

Ingredients

1 gram saffron threads
1 cup whole milk
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 cup raisins
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional pearl sugar for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Blooming the Saffron

Start by warming the milk until it is lukewarm. This gentle heat is crucial for blooming the saffron threads, ensuring they release their golden color and rich flavor. After heating the milk, add the saffron and let it steep for about 10–15 minutes. You’ll notice the milk will become tinted with a beautiful yellow hue, which is exactly what you want for a fragrant, flavorful base.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

While your saffron is blooming, it’s time to activate the yeast. In a mixing bowl, combine the saffron-infused milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise beautifully.

Step 3: Mixing the Dough

Once your yeast is foamy, it’s time to add the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, mixing thoroughly until you form a soft dough. If the dough seems a bit dry, you can add a tablespoon of warm water; it should be soft and slightly tacky. This texture is critical for the perfect bun!

Step 4: Kneading the Dough

Knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured countertop or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Either method should take about 7–10 minutes, and you want it to achieve a smooth, elastic texture. This step is vital to develop the gluten necessary for fluffy buns.

Step 5: First Rise

After kneading, transfer your dough to a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This first rise is where the magic happens, so ensure it’s a cozy spot for your dough.

Step 6: Shaping the Buns

Once the dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently to release any excess air. Divide the dough into 12–16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, and twist them into an “S” shape or form them into whimsical figure-eight swirls. Don’t forget to press a raisin into the center of each swirl for added sweetness and decoration!

Step 7: Second Rise

Place your shaped buns on parchment-lined baking sheets, ensuring they have enough space to expand. Cover them with a damp cloth and let rise for an additional 30–45 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s hot and ready to bake when your buns are done rising.

Step 8: Baking the Buns

Once the buns have risen nicely, brush the tops gently with a beaten egg to impart a glossy finish. This step is especially crucial for those shiny appearances that make St. Lucia Saffron Buns so appealing! Bake in your preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until they are a lovely golden brown. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, tantalizing anyone nearby!

Step 9: Final Touches

If you wish, sprinkle optional pearl sugar on top of your buns while they are still warm. This adds a touch of sweetness and a lovely crunch to each bite. Allow your buns to cool slightly, and they are ready to serve!

Variations

Protein: You can add finely chopped nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts for added crunch.
Vegetables: Mix in some candied citrus peels for an extral pop of flavor.
Spices: Expand the flavor by incorporating cardamom or nutmeg into your dough for an aromatic lift.

Cooking Notes

Be generous with warming the milk for saffron to bloom effectively; it enhances both aroma and flavor.
Be cautious with flour; the dough should remain slightly tacky, which leads to a more tender roll.
If not serving immediately, these buns can be frozen for up to two months. Reheat them in a microwave or oven before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these buns with coffee or glögg for a perfect afternoon treat.
Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a delightful addition.

Tips

For an aesthetic touch, place some additional raisins on top of the buns before baking.
If you’d like a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the dough.
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature to help with the rising process.
Experiment with different shapes for fun presentations, especially for festive occasions.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 180 per bun
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

What makes St. Lucia Saffron Buns special?

St. Lucia Saffron Buns are special due to their unique flavor profile provided by saffron, a luxurious spice, and their traditional significance in Scandinavian culture as part of St. Lucia Day celebrations.

Can I use other types of flour?

While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture, but it might alter the sweetness of your buns.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any uneaten buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I add other ingredients like nuts or chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your buns by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even expanding flavors with spices as desired.

Conclusion

In conclusion, St. Lucia Saffron Buns are more than just a recipe; they’re a way to bring warmth, joy, and a touch of Scandinavian culture into your home. Their soft texture and comforting saffron flavor will make them a favorite among family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating St. Lucia Day or just looking to enjoy a delightful treat, making these buns is sure to fill your kitchen with happiness. Don’t forget to share your own experiences in the comments below or on social media, and enjoy your baking adventure. Happy baking!