Korvapuusti

Korvapuusti (Finnish Cinnamon Rolls) are a beloved Finnish treat, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee during a fika (coffee break). These soft, spiced buns are shaped with a distinctive twist and topped with pearl sugar. Here's how to make them:

Ingredients

Makes about 12-16 rolls

For the Dough:

• 500 ml (2 cups) warm milk (about 37°C/98°F)
• 100 g (7 tbsp) butter, melted
• 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cardamom (optional but traditional)
• 1 egg
• 11 g (1 packet) dry yeast or 25 g fresh yeast
• 800-900 g (6 1/2 - 7 cups) all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 75 g (5 tbsp) softened butter
• 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
• 2-3 tsp ground cinnamon

For Topping:

• 1 egg (beaten, for brushing)
• Pearl sugar (or granulated sugar if unavailable)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   • In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Add sugar, salt, cardamom, egg, and melted butter. Mix well.
   • Gradually add flour, kneading until you have a smooth and elastic dough. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

   • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon into a smooth paste.

3. Roll and Fill

   • Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick.
   • Spread the cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the dough.

4. Shape the Rolls

   • Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the long edges. Slice the log into pieces about 3-4 cm (1.5 inches) thick.
   • Pinch one side of each roll slightly to create a “twisted ear” shape, or leave them as rounds if preferred. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Second Rise

   • Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

6. Bake the Rolls

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Brush the rolls with beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

7. Cool and Serve

   • Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated later.

Tips

• For extra softness, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Cardamom is optional but adds a distinct Finnish flavor to the dough.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container or freeze them to enjoy later.

Korvapuusti translates to "slapped ears," referring to their unique shape. These delicious rolls are a staple in Finnish bakeries and homes alike. Serve them warm, and enjoy their rich cinnamon aroma! 😊