Catholic Recipe: Lussekatter (Lucia Buns)

Buns served on St. Lucia's Day (Luciadagen) in Sweden, December 13.

DIRECTIONS

Add milk to butter, sugar, and salt, and stir until dissolved. Cool to lukewarm and add the yeast, stir well, then add egg. Gradually stir in flour and the crushed cardamon, and beat thoroughly. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until double in bulk. Knead on a floured board for a few minutes. Roll a small portion at a time and cut into strips about 5 inches long and 1 inch wide. Place two strips together to form the letter X and curl out the ends. Decorate the center of each bun with four raisins. Place on a greased baking sheet and brush with beaten egg. Cover and let rise for 1 hour. Bake in a moderately hot oven (400° F.) for 12 minutes. (Recipe of Hannah Johnson)