If you are looking for a baked treat that feels like a warm hug with every bite, these Orange Cardamom Buns are exactly what you need. Imagine soft, tender buns infused with a fragrant hint of cardamom and bright citrusy orange zest, perfectly balanced with a buttery, brown sugar filling that melts into the strands of twisted dough. The subtle spice and sweet glaze make these buns a delightful pick-me-up at breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a comforting finish to any meal. Let me take you through how to create these irresistible Orange Cardamom Buns that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Orange Cardamom Buns Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Orange Cardamom Buns lies in their simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a role in building the perfect texture, flavor depth, and the lovely aroma that fills your home.

Milk, warmed (2/3 cup): Activates the yeast, providing moisture and richness to the dough.
Instant yeast (2 teaspoons): Ensures a lovely rise and fluffy texture.
Egg and egg yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the dough giving the buns a tender crumb.
Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the dough gently, complementing the citrus and spice flavors.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor with a subtle warmth.
Ground cardamom (1/2 teaspoon + 1 1/2 teaspoons): The star spice for that distinct aromatic and slightly citrusy note.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon + pinch): Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
All-purpose or bread flour (2 3/4 cups): The structure of the buns, providing chew and softness.
Unsalted butter, softened (1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon): Adds moisture, richness, and contributes to that melt-in-your-mouth feeling.
Brown sugar (1/3 cup): Forms the luscious filling with a deep caramel-like sweetness.
Orange zest (1 1/2 teaspoons + 1 teaspoon): Delivers a fresh, bright citrus note throughout the buns and glaze.
Egg (1 for washing): Gives the buns a gorgeous golden finish.
Turbinado or regular sugar: Adds a sweet crunch on top after baking.
Icing sugar (1 cup): Forms the sweet glaze that ties the flavors together.
Orange juice (3–5 tablespoons): Used in the glaze for that perfect citrus balance.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Just enough saltiness in the glaze to highlight the orange and cardamom.

How to Make Orange Cardamom Buns

Step 1: Activating Yeast and Preparing Dough Base

Start by warming the milk to a cozy 100-110°F, just perfect to wake up the yeast without killing it. Stir in the yeast with a pinch of sugar and let it do its thing, usually no bubbling needed but follow your yeast’s instructions. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, remaining sugar, vanilla, salt, and ground cardamom – this mix will infuse fragrant warmth right into your dough.

Step 2: Combining Ingredients to Form Dough

Add the milk and yeast mixture into the egg concoction, stirring gently until combined. Slowly add the flour and mix until a rough dough appears. Incorporate the softened butter next, kneading for 5 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step is key for getting that soft, fluffy texture you crave in your Orange Cardamom Buns. Cover and let it rise for about 45 minutes until doubled – patience here means perfect buns!

Step 3: Creating the Filling and Shaping the Buns

Mix softened butter with brown sugar, cardamom, orange zest, and a pinch of salt into a creamy paste – this filling brings the rich flavor center to every twist. Roll out your risen dough into a large rectangle, spread the filling over half, then fold it over like a dreamy sandwich. Slice into strips, twist gently, and wrap each around your fingers to form those charming buns, ready to rise once again for that airy bite.

Step 4: Baking with a Beautiful Finish

After the buns have puffed up, give them an egg wash to enhance that golden color and sprinkle generously with sugar for a delightful crunch. Bake at 375°F, keeping an eye on the color and flipping the tray halfway to bake evenly. The sweet aroma of orange and cardamom filling your oven will be just as rewarding as the final taste.

Step 5: Making the Glaze and Final Touch

Whisk together icing sugar, cardamom, orange zest, a pinch of salt, and orange juice until the glaze is drizzlable but not too runny. Once the buns cool, drizzle the glaze on top to add a glossy, tangy-sweet finish that perfectly complements the spices and buttery dough. Serve fresh, and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Orange Cardamom Buns

Garnishes

Finish your Orange Cardamom Buns with a sprinkle of turbinado sugar or extra orange zest for a sparkly, fresh look. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few crushed pistachios can also add texture and an eye-catching pop of color that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

These buns pair beautifully with a hot chai tea or coffee to enhance the cardamom’s warmth. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt with honey to balance the rich sweetness with refreshing brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the buns in a circular “wreath” formation on a festive plate for a special occasion. You can also serve them in small individual baskets lined with colorful cloth napkins for a cozy handmade vibe that’s perfect for gifting or breakfast-in-bed moments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep your Orange Cardamom Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out and dull the vibrant flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze the buns after they have fully cooled by wrapping each individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm the tinsely frozen or leftover Orange Cardamom Buns gently in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds for a quick fix – just be careful not to overheat as they can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I substitute the yeast with another leavening agent?

Instant yeast is key here because it produces the airy, light texture characteristic of Orange Cardamom Buns. Using baking powder or baking soda will change the texture and may not give the same rise or flavor development.

What if I don’t have cardamom powder on hand?

Cardamom provides a unique warm and citrusy note, but if you’re in a pinch, a mix of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of nutmeg can be a decent substitute though it won’t be quite the same.

Can these buns be made vegan?

Yes, with some tweaks you can substitute the milk for plant-based milk, replace butter with vegan butter, and use a flax egg or another egg replacer. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine!

How long does it take to make Orange Cardamom Buns from start to finish?

Including rising and baking time, expect about 2.5 to 3 hours. You can save time by preparing the dough or shaped buns the night before and baking fresh the next day.

Is it possible to make these buns gluten-free?

Gluten-free flour blends have different hydration and texture. While you can try using a mix designed for yeast baking, it may alter the softness and rise of the buns. Experimenting with xanthan gum or psyllium husk can help improve structure.

Final Thoughts

Making these Orange Cardamom Buns fills your home with the coziest aromas and your heart with joy. From the delicate balance of spice and citrus to the melt-in-your-mouth texture, every bite feels like a comforting celebration. Whether you are baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these buns truly transform an ordinary day into a remarkable experience. Give this recipe a try – I promise it will become a treasured classic you’ll want to bake again and again.

Orange Cardamom Buns Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

Author: Charlotte
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including rises)
Yield: 12 buns 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Orange Cardamom Buns offer a delightful blend of zesty orange and warm cardamom, wrapped in soft, buttery, twisted dough. Perfectly sweetened and topped with a fragrant glaze, these buns make an exquisite treat for breakfast, brunch, or tea time.

Instructions

Prepare yeast mixture: Heat the milk until warm to the touch (100-110°F). Stir in the yeast and a small pinch of sugar. Allow to activate if needed as per yeast package instructions.
Mix wet ingredients: In a food processor with a dough blade (or stand mixer bowl), whisk together the egg, egg yolk, remaining sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and cardamom.
Combine yeast and wet mixture: Add the yeast-milk mixture to the egg mixture, stirring to combine thoroughly.
Form dough: Add the flour and mix until a rough dough forms.
Add butter and knead: Gradually add softened butter to the dough, mixing for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour sparingly if sticky. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
Prepare filling: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cardamom, orange zest, and pinch of salt until smooth. Set aside.
Roll out dough: Once risen, roll dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12″x17″ rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Spread filling and fold: Spread filling evenly over half the dough. Fold the other half over the filling to form a sandwich.
Cut and twist strips: Cut the folded dough into 12 strips, about 1 inch wide. Twist each gently and wrap around two fingers twice, tucking ends to secure.
Arrange and second rise: Place buns on parchment-lined baking sheets, six per pan, space evenly. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for 45 minutes.
Prepare glaze: In a bowl, whisk together icing sugar, cardamom, orange zest, kosher salt, and orange juice 1 tablespoon at a time until drizzle consistency is reached.
Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C) with rack in the middle.
Egg wash and sugar: Brush risen buns with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake: Bake buns for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, turning tray halfway through. Bake one tray at a time.
Cool: Let buns cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Glaze and serve: Drizzle cooled buns with glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature with favorite hot drinks.
Make ahead option: After second rise, buns can be refrigerated overnight. Bake fresh the next morning for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

Using a food processor, stand mixer, or mixing by hand is possible but may affect timing.
If dough is sticky during kneading, add flour slowly to avoid dryness.
Ensure milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing yeast.
Turbinado sugar adds crunch to the topping but regular sugar works as well.
Glaze consistency is key; add orange juice incrementally to avoid overly runny glaze.
Refrigerating shaped buns overnight allows baking fresh in the morning with excellent results.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Scandinavian-inspired