Traditional Santa Lucia Saffron Buns

by ElizabethBennet

1.6K3214

Intro: Traditional Santa Lucia Saffron Buns

These unique buns are the traditional cuisine in many countries on December 13th, in honor of Santa Lucia. On this day, the oldest daughter rises earlier than the rest of the family, dons a white gown, red sash, and wreath of lighted candles, and wakes the family carrying a tray of these buns.

Now, don't worry if you don't have saffron on hand! The desired taste and color can be acquired by blending turmeric and paprika, two more readily available spices.

STEP 1: Prepare the Milk and Butter

In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter. Remove from heat as soon as the butter is melted.

STEP 2: Prepare Yeast

Mix the yeast and lukewarm water in a bowl. Let stand 5 minutes.

STEP 3: Add the Milk Mixture and Next 4 Ingredients to Yeast

Add the milk mixture to the yeast mixture, and whip for a few seconds to cool it off before adding the egg. Then add the sugar, egg, salt and saffron, and mix until well blended.

STEP 4: Add the Flour

Add the flour and mix until a nice dough is formed. A dough hook attachment on a stand mixer would work well.

STEP 5: Knead; Let Rise

Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes. Then place in an oil-coated bowl and turn to coat. Cover the bowl with a towel and place in a warm area for 45 minutes-1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

STEP 6: Shape the Dough

Once it has raised nicely, punch the dough down and divide into 8 even portions. Divide each portion in half, and roll each half into a 6-inch rope. Place one on top of the other as shown, and coil the ends (see pictures).

STEP 7: Add Raisins and Let Rise

Firmly press a raisin into each coil, and place the buns on a greased jelly roll pan. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.

STEP 8: Brush With Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the buns with egg wash and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Enjoy!

13 Comments

unfkr 2 years ago

Hi , looks great , any chance you have printable copy without the photos less paper ? thanks ,Carl

ElizabethBennet 2 years ago

I don't have a printable copy uploaded, but I'm sure there are some on the internet.

unfkr 2 years ago

OK thank you

GoFish 2 years ago

You can also use one of the screen shoot tools like Fireshot and clip just the bit you want.

always curious 2 years ago

To save paper I do "copy" the whole article, then paste to Word doc. Save that, then edit. Takes time, but photos can be resized or even deleted. Save again and print.

GoFish 2 years ago

Looking forward to trying. Thanks for the tip about Turmeric and Paprika.

t.rohner 2 years ago

Nice instructable.
I lately baked peace doves. (sold to support Ukrainian Children)
This dough is made with buttermilk and orange zest. (Without Saffron or turmeric)

gralan 2 years ago

My sister did the Saint Lucia thing for a couple years, when we grew up on the farm up North. Thanks for the recipe. Oh, the tip about turmeric and paprika for saffron is superb.
Great Instructable, as it seems Swede-proof. hahaha Now I can do these at Xmas, along with the potatis korv, lefse, and more.

ElizabethBennet 2 years ago

I'm glad you found the recipe helpful! Yes, it is a beautiful tradition!

Ronna Farley 2 years ago

These look so pretty and very tasty!!!

ElizabethBennet 2 years ago

Thank you! It is a fun tradition, especially to celebrate with kids!