Semla: The Swedish Delight with Cardamom, Almond Paste, and Cream That'll Steal Your Heart

Ingredients

For the Cardamom Buns:

• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups (440-500 g) all-purpose flour

For the Almond Paste Filling:

• 1 cup (100 g) almond flour
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) milk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

For the Cream Topping:

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons (15 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Method

Preparing the Cardamom Buns

1. Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until it's just about to simmer. Remove from heat and add the butter, stirring until it's completely melted. Let the mixture cool until it's warm to the touch (about 110°F or 45°C).
2. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk mixture with the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of flour, ground cardamom, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and the egg. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until the dough begins to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add the remaining flour, a little at a time, if the dough is too sticky.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Making the Almond Paste Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together almond flour, powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. If the paste is too thick, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
2. Shape and Chill: Form the almond paste into small balls or logs, depending on how you plan to use them. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the cream and buns.

Preparing the Cream Topping

1. Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as the cream can turn into butter.

Assembling the Semla

1. Cut the Tops: Once the cardamom buns are completely cooled, use a serrated knife to cut off the top third of each bun. Carefully scoop out some of the interior crumb to create space for the filling.
2. Fill with Almond Paste: Place a small amount of almond paste into each hollowed-out bun. You can use your fingers or a spoon to press it down gently.
3. Add the Cream: Generously pipe or spoon whipped cream over the almond paste filling, mounding it slightly.
4. Replace the Tops: Place the tops of the buns back on. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Overall Conclusive Paragraph

Semla is more than just a treat; it’s a celebration of Swedish culinary heritage that brings together the comforting warmth of cardamom buns, the rich sweetness of almond paste, and the light, airy texture of whipped cream. This pastry embodies a tradition that has delighted taste buds for generations and continues to enchant people around the world. Whether you're marking a special occasion or simply indulging in a bit of everyday luxury, Semla is sure to provide a delightful and satisfying experience. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it's an irresistible pastry that turns every bite into a moment of pure joy.

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