saffron buns with almond mass

Saffron Buns with Almond Mass

About This Recipe

Saffron buns filled with almond mass are a luxurious twist on traditional saffron buns. The dough is soft, lightly sweet, and delicately perfumed with saffron, while the almond filling adds richness and depth. These buns are especially popular in Nordic baking and are often enjoyed during winter celebrations.

Prep & Baking Time

Prep time: 25 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 15 minutes (total)
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour 50 minutes

Ingredients (Makes 12 buns)

Saffron Dough

250 ml (1 cup) whole milk
75 g (⅓ cup) unsalted butter
1 sachet (0.5 g) saffron threads
75 g (⅓ cup) sugar
7 g (2¼ tsp) dry active yeast
1 large egg, room temperature
½ tsp salt
500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour

Almond Mass Filling

150 g (5 oz) almond paste (almond mass), grated
40 g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp sugar
2–3 tbsp milk

For Brushing & Topping

1 egg, beaten
Sliced almonds
Pearl sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Infuse the Saffron

Heat milk gently until warm (not boiling).
Add butter and saffron threads, stirring until butter melts.
Let mixture cool to lukewarm (about 37°C / 98°F).

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine saffron milk mixture and sugar.
Sprinkle yeast over the liquid and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add egg and salt.
Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a mixer with dough hook, until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover dough and let rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes, until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare Almond Filling

In a bowl, mix almond paste, butter, sugar, and milk until smooth and spreadable.
Set aside at room temperature.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

Preheat oven to 220°C / 425°F.
Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a rectangle.
Spread almond filling evenly over the dough.
Roll up tightly and shape into spirals or knots.
Place on a lined baking tray.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover buns lightly and let rise for 25–30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Brush buns with beaten egg.
Sprinkle with sliced almonds and pearl sugar.
Bake at 220°C / 425°F for 10–12 minutes, until golden.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Cool on a wire rack.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Saffron Buns

Crush saffron threads with a pinch of sugar before adding for stronger flavor and color.
Dough should be soft, not sticky—add flour gradually.
Don’t overbake; saffron buns should stay tender.
For extra moisture, brush warm buns with a little melted butter or sugar syrup.

Variations

Cardamom touch: Add ½ tsp ground cardamom to the dough
Orange zest: Mix into the almond filling
Dairy-free: Use plant milk and vegan butter
Extra indulgent: Drizzle with vanilla glaze after baking

Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Freeze baked buns for up to 2 months
Reheat briefly at 160°C / 325°F for best texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve with coffee or tea
Perfect for brunch tables and festive mornings
Enjoy with whipped cream or vanilla custard for dessert-style buns

Final Thoughts

These Saffron Buns with Almond Mass combine fragrant dough and rich filling into a beautifully soft, golden bake. Elegant yet comforting, they’re a wonderful addition to holiday baking or any time you want something special.