Julekake (Norwegian Christmas Bread)

Make this easy homemade Julekake, a beloved Norwegian Christmas bread made with cardamom, candied fruit, and a tender, golden crumb. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or holiday gatherings.

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine Norwegian

Keyword bread, christmas

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 40

Rise Time 2 30

Total Time 3 35

Servings slices

Calories 280kcal

Ingredients

1 cup whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup butter unsalted
2 teaspoons ground cardamom
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for kneading
2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup raisins
½ cup candied citrus peel chopped
1 egg for egg wash

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Dissolve the yeast in lukewarm milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until foamy.
Melt the butter and sugar in a small saucepan. Remove from the heat.
Stir in the cardamom and salt. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Combine the yeast mixture, butter mixture, and eggs in a large bowl.
Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Gently fold in the raisins and candied citrus peel.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Beat the remaining egg in a small bowl, and brush it over the loaf.
Bake 35–40 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped with your fingernail.
Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition