Norwegian Custard Buns recipe, known as “Skoleboller” or “Skolebrød” in Norway, are a beloved treat that captures the essence of Scandinavian baking. These sweet, cardamom-infused buns are filled with rich, creamy custard and topped with a generous layer of icing and a sprinkle of desiccated coconut.
Norwegian Custard Buns Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 Pastry brush
- 1 Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk, lukewarm
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp water or milk
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.Add the sugar, melted butter, salt, and ground cardamom (if using) to the yeast mixture. Mix well.Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Custard Filling:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the custard. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.Gradually pour the hot milk into the whisking constantly to avoid curdling.Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens (about 5-7 minutes).Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Shape the Buns:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions.Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Fill and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).Once the buns have risen, use your fingers to create a small indentation in the center of each bun.Fill each indentation with about a tablespoon of the prepared custard.Bake the buns for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown.Remove from the oven and let them cool on a cooling rack.
Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with just enough water or milk to create a thick glaze.Once the buns have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over each bun.Sprinkle desiccated coconut on top of the glaze while it's still wet.
Notes
These Norwegian Custard Buns, also known as Skolebrød, are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Historically, these buns were packed into schoolchildren’s lunches, hence the name “Skoleboller,” which translates to “school buns.” They are perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a delightful breakfast, offering a taste of Norway’s rich culinary traditions in every bite.
More Vegetarian Recipes:
- Sweet Potato Peanut Curry Recipe
- Vegan Jambalaya Recipe
- American Pancakes Recipe
- Rice Cake Cress Faces Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 75g granulated sugar
- 7g active dry yeast
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 250ml whole milk (warm)
- 75g unsalted butter (melted)
For the Custard Filling:
- 250ml whole milk
- 50g granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 100g powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp water or milk
- Desiccated coconut for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk with the sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cardamom, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, followed by the melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Custard:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the custard. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the whisking constantly.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and allow it to cool completely.
3. Shape the Buns:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each ball slightly and use your fingers to create a small well in the center of each bun.
- Spoon a generous amount of the cooled custard into each well. Cover the buns loosely with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Bake the Buns:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Bake the buns for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
5. Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with enough water or milk to create a thick icing. Once the buns have cooled, drizzle the icing over the top of each bun and immediately sprinkle with desiccated coconut.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Your Norwegian Custard Buns are now ready to enjoy! Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a truly authentic Norwegian experience.
Conclusion:
These Norwegian Custard Buns are more than just a dessert; they are a slice of Norwegian heritage. With their sweet custard filling and aromatic cardamom dough, they make for an irresistible treat that will transport you to the scenic landscapes of Norway. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave a comforting and indulgent pastry.