Cocoa and cardamom swirl buns: a fragrant and tasty pastry delight

Enjoy the irresistible aroma and taste of these cocoa and cardamom swirl buns, perfect for any time of the day. These soft, fluffy rolls are infused with the warm, spicy notes of cardamom and the rich depth of cocoa, creating a pastry that is as delicious as it is aromatic. Ideal for those who like a spicy touch with their sweets!

Why you'll love it: The unique combination of cocoa and cardamom offers a delicious twist on traditional sweet rolls. These buns are not only a treat for your taste buds but also fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma while they bake.

Perfect occasion: These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting snack with a cup of coffee or tea. They're also perfect for special occasions or quiet weekend mornings when you want something special without too much fuss.

Decorating Tips: After baking, brushing these buns with maple syrup gives them a nice shine and an extra touch of sweetness. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze over them once they have cooled slightly.

Ingredients:

Cocoa and cardamom filling:

• 100g caster sugar or cane sugar
• 2 teaspoons of cardamom powder
• 3 teaspoons dutch cocoa powder
• 45 g melted butter (reserved for brushing)

Dough:

• 125 ml of lukewarm water
• 85 ml unsweetened almond milk (or any other milk of your choice)
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 45g caster sugar
• 330g all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 3/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 55g vegan butter or soft butter

Icing:

• 45 ml maple syrup or agave syrup

Instructions:

1. Prepare the yeast mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Prepare the dough:
   • Add the milk, flour, salt, cardamom and soft butter to the yeast mixture. Using a dough hook on medium speed, mix until the dough comes together and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl, about 8 to 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise until doubled in size, about 90 minutes.
3. Prepare the filling:
   • In another bowl, mix the sugar, cardamom and cocoa powder. Put aside.
4. Roll and shape the dough:
   • Lightly flour the parchment paper and the risen dough. Spread it out onto a 12″ x 20″ rectangle.
   • Brush the dough with 3/4 of the melted butter, spread the cocoa mixture evenly, then drizzle with the remaining butter.
   • Fold the dough into thirds, refrigerate for 30 minutes, then roll out into a 16″ x 8″ rectangle. Cut into 8 strips and twist each into a spiral.
5. Second check:
   • Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for 60 minutes or until doubled.
6. Bake and glaze:
   • Preheat the oven to 385°F (196°C). Bake the buns for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
   • Brush each hot bun with maple syrup. Allow to cool and store in an airtight container.

Note: You can make these rolls the day before, letting them rise overnight in the refrigerator for fresh morning rolls.

Enjoy these lovely Cocoa Cardamom Swirl Buns, a perfect blend of sweet and spicy that is sure to warm your heart and delight your palate!