Techniques

Shaping Saffron Buns

Swedish saffron buns, called_lussekatter_, can be made in a number of traditional shapes; here’s how to create the distinctive double-spiral form called for in our recipe.

By Hunter Lewis


Published on November 12, 2009

1. Using a pastry scraper or a large knife, divide the dough into quarters, then cut each quarter into 8 equal-size pieces.

2. Working with 1 dough piece at a time (and setting aside the remaining dough pieces on a baking sheet until you're ready to shape them), use your fingers to roll dough piece into an 8"-long rope.

3.Twist 1 end of the segment toward its center and curl the end into a tight spiral shape until you reach the middle of the rope.

4. Repeat with the other end, twisting in the opposite direction, so that you end up with an S-shaped pastry. Transfer shaped dough pieces, spaced 2" apart, to 4 baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Cover the baking sheets with plastic wrap and let the buns rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes.

5. When ready to bake, place a raisin in the center of each spiral.

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