Sweet Cardamom Rolls with Pearl Sugar Recipe

There is something truly magical about baking Sweet Cardamom Rolls with Pearl Sugar Recipe at home. These fluffy, fragrant rolls are tender pillows of dough infused with warm cardamom spice and topped with crunchy pearl sugar that adds the perfect touch of sweetness and texture. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or served alongside your morning coffee, this recipe brings that cozy, comforting feeling that’s hard to resist. I promise, once you experience the delicate spice and sweet crunch balancing beautifully in every bite, these rolls will become a beloved staple in your baking rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that combine to create a symphony of flavor, texture, and aroma. Each item plays a vital role: from the yeast that creates a soft lift in the dough, to the cardamom which imparts that iconic warmth, and the pearl sugar that delivers a delightful crunch atop the rolls.

• 1/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and helps create a light dough.
• 1 cup warm milk: Adds tenderness and richness to the rolls.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Provides moisture and a soft crumb texture.
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast: The essential leavening agent that makes the rolls rise beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast to encourage fermentation and rise.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon cardamom: Infuses the dough with warm, fragrant spices that are essential for the signature flavor.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and strengthens gluten formation.
• 1 large egg yolk: Adds richness and enhances the soft texture.
• 3 & 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the rolls; use spooned and leveled for accuracy.
• 1/2 cup pearl sugar (optional): Folding this into the dough gives occasional bites of delightful crunch.
• 1 egg (beaten): For an egg wash that creates a beautiful golden sheen.
• 2 teaspoons water: Mixed with the beaten egg to thin out the egg wash for smooth application.
• Additional cardamom and pearl sugar: For sprinkling on top, adding aromatic spice and that signature crunch.

How to Make Sweet Cardamom Rolls with Pearl Sugar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Warm Liquid Base

Start by gently warming your water, milk, and butter together until lukewarm—about 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This perfect temperature wakes up the yeast without cooking it, setting the stage for the softest rolls you’ll ever bake. It’s okay if the butter hasn’t fully melted; it will blend in beautifully during mixing.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Sprinkle in the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar, then stir and leave it be for five minutes. Watch for that foamy, bubbly surface—that’s your green light to move forward. This bubbling action means your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to work its rising magic in the dough.

Step 3: Combine Your Wet Ingredients

Transfer the yeast mixture to a large bowl or a stand mixer bowl and add in the granulated sugar, cardamom, kosher salt, and egg yolk. Beat these together well so everything is evenly incorporated, creating a fragrant, sweet base mixture that will soon transform into luscious dough.

Step 4: Add Flour and Form Dough

Begin by adding half of your flour, stirring to combine. Switch to a dough hook if you’re using a stand mixer, then add the remaining flour gradually. Mix until a soft dough forms. It should be a little sticky, but not too much; add more flour sparingly to keep the dough soft yet workable.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough either with your mixer’s dough hook or by hand for about five minutes. This helps develop the gluten for a chewy, tender crumb. The texture will be smooth and elastic when done.

Step 6: First Rise in a Warm Place

Lightly grease a large bowl and shape your dough into a ball. Place it in the bowl, flipping once so it’s coated in oil to prevent drying out. Cover the bowl and set it somewhere warm to rise for an hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is the magic where your dough transforms into something airy and light.

Step 7: Prepare Your Baking Pan

While the dough rises, grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures your rolls won’t stick and will develop a golden crust that’s irresistible.

Step 8: Fold in Pearl Sugar

After the first rise, punch down your dough gently and fold in pearl sugar. This step is optional but highly recommended for those seeking delightful, crunchy bursts throughout the rolls as you bite into them. Most of the pearl sugar dissolves but some remains to add irresistible texture.

Step 9: Shape the Rolls

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, pinching one end slightly to create the classic roll shape. Place each roll into your prepared pan, giving them just enough room to expand as they rise again.

Step 10: Egg Wash and Toppings

Beat together your egg and water to create a luscious egg wash. Brush it generously over each roll to develop a beautiful golden color when baked. Sprinkle each with a little more cardamom and as much pearl sugar as you can fit on top. Trust me, this topping takes the rolls to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Step 11: Second Rise and Baking

Cover your pan with a clean tea towel and let the rolls rise again in a warm spot for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once ready, bake the rolls for 14-18 minutes, until they’re gorgeously golden all over.

Step 12: Cool Slightly and Enjoy

Let your Sweet Cardamom Rolls with Pearl Sugar Recipe cool for 5 to 10 minutes before diving in. These are at their absolute best eaten warm and fresh, paired with a cold glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage for the ultimate comfort treat.

How to Serve Sweet Cardamom Rolls with Pearl Sugar Recipe

Garnishes

A simple scattering of extra pearl sugar and a hint of ground cardamom on top keeps things classic, but you can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar after baking for an extra sweet touch. Freshly chopped pistachios add a lovely pop of color and nutty flavor if you want to fancy things up.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with a variety of beverages: a creamy latte, hot cocoa, or a classic cup of black tea. For a fuller brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a smooth yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the rolls stacked in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin to keep them cozy and warm. Alternatively, slice them horizontally and fill with a smear of softened butter or homemade cardamom-infused cream cheese for a delightful twist that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, but if you want to savor them longer, freezing is your friend.

Freezing

Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen rolls keep well for up to two months—perfect for making ahead or enjoying cardamom-spiced treats anytime you wish.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, thaw rolls overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then warm in a 300-degree oven for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds to revive softness and make the pearl sugar sparkle once again.

FAQs

Can I use different spices instead of cardamom?

Absolutely! While cardamom is the star spice here, you can experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or a blend of warm spices to suit your palate. Just remember cardamom’s distinctive floral and citrus notes are part of what makes these rolls truly special.

Is pearl sugar necessary for the recipe?

Pearl sugar is optional but highly recommended because it provides that delightful crunch and jewel-like sparkle on top. If unavailable, you can substitute with coarse sugar or simply omit it; the rolls will still be delicious but with less texture contrast.

How can I make the dough rise faster?

Rising times can vary based on temperature. Placing the dough in a warm, draft-free spot like inside an off oven with the light on or near a sunny window can speed up rising. Avoid overly hot spots to prevent killing the yeast.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but keep in mind that this may affect the dough’s softness and rise. Start by replacing up to half and adjust based on your preference.

What’s the best way to shape the rolls?

Rolling the dough into tight balls and pinching one end helps maintain their shape while rising and baking. This creates an appealing traditional look and ensures even baking throughout.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Sweet Cardamom Rolls with Pearl Sugar Recipe enough! They are a heartwarming, delicious way to bring a touch of bakery magic into your own kitchen. Whether you serve them at a special brunch or simply treat yourself on a quiet morning, these rolls will fill your home with irresistible aromas and your heart with joy. Give them a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without their cozy cardamom charm.

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