Pullapitko (Finnish Sweet Bread)

Embark on a delicious journey to Finland with this traditional Pullapitko, also known as Nisu in the United States. This sweet, yeast-based bread is infused with the warm and aromatic flavor of cardamom, beautifully braided, and topped with pearl sugar. Whether you choose the classic plain or the luscious cardamom-filled version, this bread is a perfect companion to your afternoon coffee or tea.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

🥛 5 dl lukewarm milk
🌾 1 kg Robin Hood All-Purpose Flour
🍚 2 dl granulated sugar
🥚 1 egg room temperature
🧂 2 tsp salt
🍞 20 g dry yeast
🧈 150 g softened butter room temperature
🌿 1 tbsp cardamom ground & whole cracked seeds

Cardamom Filling

🧈 75 g softened butter room temperature
🍚 50 ml granulated sugar
🌿 2 tsp cracked cardamom
🌾 2 tbsp Robin Hood All-Purpose Flour

Topping

🥚 Egg wash 1 egg mixed with 1 tsp water
🧊 Pearl sugar

Instructions

1- Prepare the Dough Base:

• In a large metal mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and dry yeast. Whisk well to dissolve.
• Add granulated sugar, salt, and cardamom. Whisk thoroughly.
• Mix in the egg until well combined and the mixture is slightly airy.
• Gradually add all-purpose flour, whisking as you go, until the dough begins to form.
• Transfer to a stand mixer, using a whisk attachment initially, then switch to a dough hook while continuing to add flour gradually.
• Incorporate softened butter piece by piece with the dough hook running until the dough is smooth and elastic.

2- First Proofing:

• Turn out onto a lightly floured surface, knead briefly by hand, and form into a smooth ball.
• Place back into a clean bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and allow to prove until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.

3- Prepare for Shaping:

• Punch down the dough, release air, and divide into two equal portions.

4- Shape the Plain Braided Loaf:

• Divide one portion into three. Roll each into a long log.
• Braid the logs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

5- Prepare the Cardamom Filling:

• Mix butter, sugar, cracked cardamom, and flour into a cohesive filling.

6- Shape the Filled Braided Loaf:

• Follow the same braiding method for the second portion.
• Make a deep slit in the middle of the braid and fill evenly with cardamom filling.

7- Second Proofing & Topping:

• Allow both loaves to rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
• Brush the plain loaf with egg wash and sprinkle generously with pearl sugar.

8- Baking:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

9- Cooling & Serving:

• Cool slightly before slicing. Serve with coffee or tea.

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: Approximately 20 slices
Equipment: KitchenAid Professional 600 Stand Mixer, Oven, Mixing Bowls, Whisk, Wooden Board, Marimekko Towel, Baking Sheets, Parchment Paper, Pastry Brush

Cooking Tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother dough.
• The yeast quantity is higher for a richer dough.
• Braiding creates a beautiful pattern while allowing the dough to expand well.

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Pullapitko (Finnish Sweet Bread)