Jollekakor (also spelled Julekake) is a traditional Scandinavian Christmas bread that’s rich, spiced, and filled with dried fruits like raisins or currants. It’s sweet, aromatic, and perfect for the holidays or any time you want a cozy, festive treat. Here’s a recipe to make this delightful bread:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, or chopped dried apricots)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for topping, optional)
Directions:
1. Prepare the milk mixture:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, sugar, and butter over medium heat until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool until it’s warm but not hot (about 110°F or 43°C).
2. Activate the yeast:
- Sprinkle the yeast into the warm milk mixture, stirring gently to combine. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
3. Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
- Pour the milk-yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the egg and mix until the dough starts to come together. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands.
5. Knead the dough:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little flour at a time, but be careful not to add too much.
6. Add the dried fruit:
- Once the dough is kneaded, gently fold in the dried fruit and citrus zest (if using). Continue kneading just until the fruit is evenly distributed.
7. First rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
8. Shape the dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air. Shape the dough into a round loaf or divide it into smaller loaves (about 2-3).
- Place the loaf or loaves on a greased baking sheet.
9. Second rise:
- Cover the loaf with a towel again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has puffed up.
10. Bake the bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Before baking, brush the top of the loaf with a beaten egg for a shiny finish. Optionally, sprinkle with sugar for a sweet touch.
- Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re making smaller loaves, they may bake faster.
11. Cool and serve:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. The flavor deepens as it cools and can be enjoyed fresh or toasted with butter.
Tips:
- You can add chopped candied ginger or chopped almonds for a little extra flavor.
- Jollekakor is great with a cup of tea or coffee, and it also makes an excellent holiday gift.
Enjoy your delicious Jollekakor—it’s a warm and festive treat that brings a taste of Scandinavian tradition to your kitchen!
