Did you know that Sweden has its very own day dedicated to the cinnamon bun? It’s one of our most beloved traditions - Cinnamon Bun Day, celebrated every year on October 4th. On this day, the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon buns spreads across the country, from cafés and bakeries to home kitchens. Since 1999, Cinnamon Bun Day has been a perfect excuse to take a break, enjoy a fika, and gather with family and friends.
For me, this day is extra special, because it always brings back childhood memories. I remember when I was little and my mom baked cinnamon buns at home. The smell filled the whole house, and still to this day, every bite takes me right back to those moments - of course, always with a glass of cold milk on the side. On Cinnamon Bun Day, it’s not just a pastry, but a moment of nostalgia, warmth, and comfort.
What is a cinnamon bun?
A cinnamon bun is a classic Swedish pastry made from wheat dough filled with butter, sugar, and cinnamon. The dough is rolled up, cut into pieces, and baked until golden brown, filling the air with its iconic scent. Since the 1920s, the cinnamon bun has been an essential part of Swedish fika culture - so cherished that it’s often described as Sweden’s national pastry. You’ll find it not only in cafés, bakeries, and pastry shops, but also baked in countless homes across the country.
Did you know this about cinnamon buns?
- In Sweden, more than 100 million cinnamon buns are eaten every year.
- The world’s largest cinnamon bun weighed a whopping 590 kilos!
Crazy, right?
Recipe for Classic Swedish Cinnamon Buns
Here’s a classic recipe that makes about 30 buns.
(Recipe by Camilla Hamid - "Saftigaste kanelbullarna" (My Kitchen Stories) ->)
Dough
1.75 oz fresh yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
2 cups milk
2 tsp ground cardamom
1 cup (8 oz) butter
1 cup sugar
8 cups (35 oz) all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 egg + pinch of salt + 1 tsp water for brushing
Pearl sugar for topping
Filling
2/3 cup (5.3 oz) room-temperature butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
5 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp cornstarch
Syrup
3/4 cup + 1 tbsp water
1 cup sugar
How to make your cinnamon buns:
- Filling: Mix together butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch into a smooth, spreadable paste.
- Starter dough: Crumble the yeast into a bowl and dissolve it in the milk. Add cardamom, butter in pieces, sugar, and half of the flour. Mix into a sticky dough. Add the salt and more flour until the dough begins to release from the sides.
- Kneading & resting: Knead the dough thoroughly - about 10 minutes in a stand mixer or a bit longer by hand. You’ll know it’s ready when you can stretch it into a thin “gluten window.” Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Shaping: Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 30×60 cm). Spread the filling evenly, then fold the dough lengthwise. Roll lightly so it’s even. Cut 1 cm wide strips from the short side and twist them into buns.
- Proofing: Place the buns on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let rise for 2-3 hours, depending on room temperature. They’re ready when they spring back slightly if pressed.
- Brushing & baking: Whisk together the egg with a little water and a pinch of salt. Brush the buns, sprinkle with pearl sugar, and bake in the middle of the oven at 200 °C (390 °F) for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Syrup: While baking, boil the water and sugar until dissolved. Brush the buns with the syrup as soon as they come out of the oven for extra shine and moisture.
The result? Soft, fluffy cinnamon buns that smell and taste absolutely wonderful.
Variations on the cinnamon bun
Want to try something new for Cinnamon Bun Day? Here are a few twists on the classic:
- Vanilla & cardamom: Replace the cinnamon with extra cardamom and a little vanilla sugar for a milder flavor.
- Chocolate bun: Add cocoa powder to the filling for an indulgent treat.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds on top before baking.
- Luxurious topping: Drizzle icing or salted caramel over the freshly baked buns.
What to serve with cinnamon buns?
For me, there are really only two true classics: a steaming cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. There’s something so simple yet so perfect about those pairings. 🥛☕
Summary
Cinnamon Bun Day is more than just an excuse to eat pastries, it’s a celebration of Swedish fika, tradition, and togetherness. Whether you bake your own or pick some up from a bakery, October 4th is a day to enjoy the taste, smell, and warmth of freshly baked cinnamon buns.
Enjoy - and Happy Cinnamon Bun Day! 🤎☕