Pulla – Traditional Finnish Cardamom Bread (Pullapitko)

Pulla, also known as Pullapitko or Nisu, is a sweet, aromatic Finnish cardamom bread that's braided to perfection and served especially during the holidays. With its soft, fluffy texture, rich flavor, and enchanting scent of freshly ground cardamom, this bread is a beloved tradition across Finnish homes—and an unforgettable treat for anyone who tastes it. ✨🍞 Whether served warm at breakfast, alongside a steaming mug of coffee or hot chocolate, or as part of a holiday tea spread, Pulla brings a sense of comfort and togetherness. It’s no wonder families across Finland—and beyond—have baked and shared this bread for generations. ❤️🇫🇮

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💌 A Family Tradition with Scandinavian Roots

This particular Pulla recipe comes from Diane, a woman with deep Scandinavian roots. Though born in the United States, Diane spent her youth in Norway, where her father worked as a mason constructing churches. At 19, she volunteered as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and spent two years in Finland in the 1960s. During her time there, she embraced Finnish culture—and picked up cherished recipes from the locals, including this beautiful braided cardamom bread. For decades, Diane baked it during the Christmas season, creating a tradition that her children and grandchildren continue today. 🎄💫 Even though the family now lives far apart, they stay connected by baking and sharing photos of their braided Pulla loaves each holiday season. It’s a delicious way to keep memories alive and hearts close.

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🤔 What Is Pulla?

Pulla is a traditional Finnish sweet bread flavored with cardamom and often braided for a decorative finish. It shares a soft, enriched texture similar to Brioche or Challah, but with a uniquely Nordic twist thanks to its fragrant spice. Known by different names like Pullapitko (braided Pulla) or Nisu (in some Finnish-American communities), this bread is enjoyed throughout the year, though it's especially popular during Christmas and other celebrations. Freshly baked Pulla fills the home with a warm, spicy aroma that feels like a cozy winter hug. When topped with crunchy pearl sugar, it becomes not just a treat—but a showstopper at any gathering. ❄️☕🍬

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🌿 Why Cardamom?

Cardamom might be a surprising staple in Nordic baking, but it has a fascinating history. Though native to India, cardamom was introduced to Scandinavia over 1,000 years ago by Vikings who encountered it during trade in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). Since then, it's become an essential ingredient in Finnish, Swedish, and Norwegian baked goods—from buns to cakes to cookies. Scandinavia now ranks among the top consumers of cardamom in the world! 👉 Pro Tip: For the most vibrant flavor, grind whole cardamom pods fresh using a mortar and pestle. Jarred ground cardamom can lose its potency over time.

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🧈 What Makes This Pulla Recipe Unique?

Unlike most traditional Pulla recipes that add melted or softened butter midway through the kneading process, this heirloom version starts by creaming the butter and eggs together, similar to cookie dough. The result? A tender, rich bread that’s light and fluffy yet satisfyingly hearty. Additional tweaks include:

• Using instant yeast (no proofing required)
• Adjusting the amount of cardamom for a more balanced flavor
• Optional addition of raisins for extra sweetness and texture

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🧾 Ingredients for Finnish Pulla

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups milk, lukewarm
• 2 tbsp instant yeast
• 2 tsp salt
• 1.5–2 tsp ground cardamom (adjust to taste)
• 8 cups all-purpose flour (approximate)
• 1/2–3/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
• Pearl sugar for topping

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🍞 How to Make Pulla (Step-by-Step)

1. Grind the Cardamom

If using whole pods, lightly crush them with a mortar and pestle. Remove the papery husks and grind the seeds into a fine powder. Set aside 2 teaspoons.

2. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Slowly mix in the milk, yeast, salt, and ground cardamom. Gradually add 7 cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing on low to medium speed. Add raisins (if using) along with the final cup of flour. Switch to a dough hook and knead until dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl (about 2–3 minutes).

3. Let It Rise

Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1 to 2 hours.

4. Shape the Braids

Punch down the dough and divide into 2 portions. Each portion can be braided using 3, 4, or 5 strands. (4-strand braids strike a nice balance of beauty and ease.) Roll each piece into ropes approximately 20 inches long and 1.5 inches thick.

5. Second Rise

Transfer braids to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again until nearly doubled, 30–45 minutes.

6. Bake

Brush the loaves with egg wash, sprinkle with pearl sugar, and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Cool on a rack for 10 minutes before slicing.

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store fully cooled loaves in a sealed plastic bag for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Slice and freeze in a zip bag for up to 3 months. Toast individual slices as needed.
• Bonus Use: Slightly stale Pulla makes the best French toast or bread pudding. 😍

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☕ Perfect Pairings

• Freshly brewed coffee ☕
• Homemade hot chocolate 🍫
• A pat of salted butter or dollop of jam 🍓

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🌟 Why You Should Try Pulla

If you're looking for a festive baking project that combines beauty, tradition, and irresistible flavor, Finnish Pulla is the perfect recipe. It’s easier to make than it looks—and the results are stunning. Braided, golden, and sugar-topped, this bread brings warmth to any table. Whether it becomes a new holiday ritual or a year-round favorite, one bite will show why Pulla has stood the test of time. 💛