Indulge in the delightful flavors of Finland with this traditional Pulla recipe. Pulla, a Finnish sweet bread, is a staple in Finnish households, often enjoyed during special occasions or as a comforting treat with coffee. This soft and aromatic bread is infused with cardamom, giving it a unique and irresistible fragrance. Our recipe guides you through the process of making Pulla from scratch, from kneading the dough to shaping it into beautiful braids or rolls. Whether you're craving a sweet breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, this Finnish Pulla will transport your taste buds to the charming landscapes of Finland. Experience the warmth and hospitality of Finnish culture right in your own kitchen with this authentic Pulla recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Pearl sugar for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1- Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of about 110°F/45°C. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar and softened butter until melted. Let the mixture cool to lukewarm.

2- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

3- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk mixture with the yeast mixture. Stir in the ground cardamom, salt, and the egg until well combined.

4- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft dough forms.

5- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

6- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

7- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into a rope, about 18 inches long.

8- To braid the Pulla, take three ropes and pinch them together at one end. Braid the ropes together, then pinch the other end to seal. Repeat with the remaining ropes.

9- Place the braided Pulla onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

10- Preheat the oven to 375°F/190°C. Brush the risen Pulla with beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar if desired.

11-Bake the Pulla in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

12- Remove from the oven and let the Pulla cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Finnish Pulla with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful Scandinavian treat!

Nutritional Values;

1- Whole milk:

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 8 grams
• Fat: 8 grams
• Carbohydrates: 12 grams
• Calcium: 276 mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of calcium, promoting bone health.
• Provides protein for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains vitamins A and D for immune function and vision health.

2-Granulated sugar:

• Calories: 387
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 100 grams

benefits:

• Provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content.
• Enhances flavor and sweetness of the bread.
• High-calorie content, so should be consumed in moderation.

3- Unsalted butter:

• Calories: 814
• Protein: 0.9 grams
• Fat: 92 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams

benefits:

• Source of healthy fats, including saturated and unsaturated fats.
• Provides fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
• Adds richness and moisture to the bread.

4- Active dry yeast:

• Calories: 21
• Protein: 2.7 grams
• Fat: 0.3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 2.4 grams

benefits:

• Contains B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, important for metabolism.
• Acts as a leavening agent, causing the dough to rise.
• Provides small amounts of protein and minerals like zinc and iron.

5- Warm water:

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams

benefits:

• Essential for hydration and proper bodily functions.
• Aids digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Helps activate the yeast for bread rising.

6- Ground cardamom:

• Calories: 6
• Protein: 0.2 grams
• Fat: 0.1 grams
• Carbohydrates: 1.4 grams

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, which may reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
• Contains essential oils that aid digestion and may have antimicrobial properties.
• Adds a unique, aromatic flavor to the bread.

7-Salt:

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Sodium: 1,150 mg

benefits:

• Regulates fluid balance in the body.
• Provides essential minerals like sodium and chloride.
• Enhances flavor and helps control yeast fermentation.

8- Egg:

• Calories: 72
• Protein: 6 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0.6 grams

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in vitamins such as B12, riboflavin, and choline, important for brain function.
• Provides essential minerals like iron and selenium.

9- All-purpose flour:

• Calories: 1,904 - 2,142 (assuming 4 to 4 1/2 cups, 1 cup = 455 calories)
• Protein: 52 - 58.5 grams (1 cup = 13 grams)
• Fat: 6 - 6.75 grams (1 cup = 1.5 grams)
• Carbohydrates: 396 - 445.5 grams (1 cup = 99 grams)

benefits:

• Main source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• Contains some protein, aiding in tissue repair and growth.
• Enriched with vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and niacin.

10- Pearl sugar (optional):

For reference, 1 tablespoon of pearl sugar:

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 13 grams

benefits:

• Adds sweetness and crunch to the bread's surface.
• High in calories and carbohydrates, providing quick energy.
• Should be used sparingly due to its high sugar content.

These ingredients collectively contribute to the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of Finnish Pulla bread.