St. Lucia Saffron Buns

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Golden, soft, and delicately infused with saffron, St. Lucia Saffron Buns are a traditional Swedish treat baked in celebration of St. Lucia’s Day on December 13th. These sunny spirals are more than just beautiful pastries—they carry warmth, light, and comfort during the darkest time of the year.

With their vibrant color and rich history, these buns have made their way into kitchens far beyond Sweden. Whether you’re honoring tradition or simply craving something unique and comforting, these saffron-scented buns are a joy to bake and an even bigger joy to eat.

Why You’ll Love This St. Lucia Saffron Buns Recipe

These buns are a feast for the senses: the aroma of saffron steeping in warm milk, the glossy golden crust that forms in the oven, and the soft, pillowy texture inside. They’re lightly sweetened and perfect for breakfast or a cozy mid-afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Plus, making them fills your home with a nostalgic, bakery-like scent that’s impossible to resist.

What Kind of Saffron Should I Use for Saffron Buns?

For the best color and flavor, opt for high-quality saffron threads rather than ground saffron. Look for vibrant red strands with a strong floral aroma. Soaking the threads in warm milk allows the color and fragrance to fully bloom, which gives the buns their distinctive hue and taste. A little goes a long way, so measure carefully.

Ingredients for the St. Lucia Saffron Buns

Each ingredient in this recipe has a purpose that contributes to the buns’ iconic texture, color, and taste.

• Whole Milk
• Saffron Threads
• Active Dry Yeast
• Granulated Sugar
• All-Purpose Flour
• Salt
• Ground Cardamom
• Unsalted Butter
• Eggs
• Raisins
• Egg Yolk + Water (for egg wash)

The saffron infuses the milk with its distinct color and floral notes, while yeast helps the dough rise into its signature fluffy form. Sugar adds a touch of sweetness, and cardamom offers a subtle spiced backdrop. Butter enriches the dough, and raisins are tucked into the buns for bursts of sweetness. The egg wash gives them that shiny golden glow.

How To Make the St. Lucia Saffron Buns

Step 1: Bloom the Saffron

Warm the milk slightly and stir in the saffron threads. Let this mixture steep for at least 10 minutes to draw out maximum color and flavor.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the saffron milk (now lukewarm) with sugar and yeast. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Dough

Add flour, salt, ground cardamom, softened butter, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

Divide the dough into even pieces, roll into ropes, and twist each into an “S” shape. Place a raisin in the center of each spiral curl.

Step 6: Final Proof

Transfer the shaped buns onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the buns with egg wash and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and lightly puffed.

How to Serve and Store These Festive Buns

St. Lucia Saffron Buns are best served warm from the oven, ideally the same day they’re baked. Their soft, tender crumb is most delightful when fresh, paired with a warm drink. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

To reheat, a quick zap in the microwave or a few minutes in a low oven will restore their soft texture. This recipe yields about 12 buns, making it perfect for sharing with family or bringing to a holiday breakfast table.

What to Serve With St. Lucia Saffron Buns?

Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream

Rich, creamy hot chocolate complements the gentle spice of saffron and cardamom.

Spiced Apple Cider

A warm mug of cider brings a cozy seasonal flair and pairs beautifully with the buns.

Swedish Glögg

This mulled wine is a traditional Scandinavian drink, often enjoyed with saffron buns during the holidays.

Greek Yogurt and Berries

The tartness of yogurt and the freshness of berries balance the rich dough for a light breakfast option.

Orange Marmalade

A dollop of marmalade spread on a bun adds citrusy zing and sweetness.

Soft Boiled Eggs

For a savory counterpoint, serve with eggs and breakfast meats.

Cream Cheese Spread

Whipped cream cheese, either plain or honey-sweetened, makes a luscious addition.

Want More Holiday Bread Ideas?

If you love these traditional saffron buns, check out these other cozy bakes from Luna Meals:

• Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole for an ooey-gooey twist on breakfast.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls for a fruity and decadent morning treat.
• Southern Hummingbird Cake packed with banana, pineapple, and spice.
• Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts when you’re craving something sweet and fast.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it every December.

I would love to hear how your St. Lucia Saffron Buns turned out! Did you use traditional “S” shapes or make your own twist? Any special add-ins? Leave a comment below and share your baking joy.

Explore more festive ideas and health-forward recipes by following Luna Meals on Pinterest. You’ll find something inspiring for every season and every craving.

Conclusion

St. Lucia Saffron Buns are a true taste of tradition, bringing light and joy into winter kitchens. Whether you bake them once a year or make them your new holiday favorite, they’re a delicious way to honor heritage and share something warm with those you love.

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