Why You’ll Love Norwegian Cardamom Rolls (Sjokoladeboller) Recipe
These cardamom rolls are tender and fluffy with a subtle fragrance of cardamom that complements the bursts of chocolate in every bite. They’re perfect for breakfast with coffee, as a snack, or dessert, and their slightly sweet, aromatic dough makes them irresistible even if you don’t have a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
450 g flour
250 ml milk
75 g sugar
13 g fresh yeast (or dry yeast equivalent)
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
75 g softened butter
75 g chocolate chips
Directions
-
Warm the milk to lukewarm (about 20°C). Crumble the fresh yeast into the milk and stir to dissolve.
-
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and ground cardamom. Pour in the milk and yeast mixture.
-
Mix with a dough hook on a mixer (or knead by hand) for about 10 minutes until a smooth dough forms.
-
Gradually add the softened butter, mixing until fully incorporated.
-
Stop the mixer and fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula.
-
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for about 1½ hours until it has doubled in size.
-
Divide the dough into 9 equal pieces, shape each into a ball, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
-
Let the shaped buns proof for about 45 minutes.
-
Brush the buns with a little milk (or egg wash for a shiny finish).
-
Bake in a preheated oven at 225°C (440°F) for about 12 minutes until golden.
-
Cool slightly before serving, or enjoy warm.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4 people
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Proofing/resting time: around 2 hours
Bake time: approx. 12 minutes
Total time: about 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
• Replace chocolate chips with raisins or chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor.
• Add a light cinnamon sugar swirl inside each bun for a cinnamon-cardamom twist.
• Use dark chocolate chunks instead of chips for richer chocolate pockets.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at low heat (about 150°C/300°F) for 5–8 minutes, or microwave briefly until warm. Freeze cooled buns for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.
FAQs
What are sjokoladeboller?
Sjokoladeboller are Norwegian cardamom-flavored sweet buns with chocolate pieces baked inside.
Can I use instant yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast—use about half the weight of fresh yeast.
Is cardamom essential in this recipe?
Cardamom gives these buns their signature Nordic flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking.
Why are the buns so fluffy?
The combination of proper kneading, yeast fermentation, and enriched dough (with butter) creates a tender, airy texture.
Can I add an egg to the dough?
Traditional recipes often include an egg, which can enrich the dough, but this version is egg-free.
How should I store leftover buns?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days or freeze for longer storage.
What chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work well; you can also use dark chocolate chunks.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a gluten-free flour blend formulated for yeast baking, though texture may vary.
Are these buns sweet?
They have a gentle sweetness—enough to enjoy as a treat without being overly sugary.
Conclusion
Norwegian Cardamom Rolls (sjokoladeboller) are a delightful Nordic bake that brings together aromatic spices and chocolate in soft, fluffy buns. Perfect for satisfying a sweet craving or elevating your brunch table, these rolls are comforting, versatile, and wonderfully fragrant. Try them warm from the oven or cooled with a cup of coffee for a truly cozy experience.
