If you adore baked treats that are crisp on the outside, pillowy on the inside, and bursting with a luscious filling, then you absolutely must try the Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe. These traditional Scandinavian delights, known as Fastelavnsboller, combine the warm aroma of cardamom-spiced dough with a creamy, dreamy vanilla pastry cream center. Whether fried to golden perfection or devoured fresh, these carnival buns bring a festive joy that feels like a warm hug from Denmark’s rich baking heritage. Every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture that’s sure to brighten any afternoon or special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together these Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering the iconic taste and texture. From the fragrant cardamom to the creamy vanilla filling, every component is essential for that perfect balance of flavor and softness.
- Whole milk (3/4 cup, warmed): This activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magic that makes the dough rise and turn fluffy.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the dough just right and feeds the yeast.
- Large egg (1, room temperature): Adds structure and richness for a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted and cooled): Infuses the dough with moisture and a silky texture.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The base of the dough providing the perfect chewy bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- Ground cardamom (1/2 teaspoon): Brings that distinctive warm, aromatic Nordic flavor.
- Vanilla pastry cream or thick vanilla pudding (1/2 cup): The luscious filling that makes these buns unforgettable.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): Adds a pretty, sweet finish.
- Neutral oil (for frying): Ensures perfectly crisp and golden buns.
How to Make Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Mix Wet Ingredients
Start by combining the warm milk with the active dry yeast in a large bowl and let it rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial because it confirms your yeast is alive and ready to make the dough rise beautifully. Then stir in the sugar, egg, and melted butter until everything is blended smoothly.
Step 2: Create the Dough
Add in the flour, salt, and ground cardamom to the wet mixture and stir until a soft dough begins to form. This dough will become wonderfully fragrant thanks to the cardamom, a little spice that gives these buns their signature Scandinavian character.
Step 3: Knead to Perfection
Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten, giving the buns their ideal chewy yet tender texture. Once ready, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, which usually takes about one hour.
Step 4: Shape and Second Rise
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Roll it out to approximately half an inch thick and cut into rounds. Arrange these rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again and let the dough rest for another 30 minutes to puff up — this second rise ensures fluffy buns with just the right bite.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat neutral oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350°F, perfect for frying. Carefully fry the buns in batches, turning once, until both sides are beautifully golden, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This frying method gives the buns a delicate crispness that contrasts perfectly with their soft interiors.
Step 6: Fill and Finish
Once the buns have cooled slightly, use a piping bag to fill each one generously with the creamy vanilla pastry cream. Finally, dust with powdered sugar for that classic carnival bun look and an extra touch of sweetness. Your Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe are now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe
Garnishes
To complement the vanilla filling, a light dusting of powdered sugar is traditional and elegant. You can also drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate or sprinkle toasted almonds for added texture and indulgence. Fresh berries on the side can add a burst of brightness, but the buns themselves are the true star here.
Side Dishes
These buns are often enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk for a perfect balance. If serving at a brunch or party, pair them with fresh fruit salads or simple whipped cream to enhance their richness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking them elegantly on a tiered cake stand with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a festive touch. You can also serve them warm in a basket lined with a colorful cloth napkin to bring that cozy, homemade charm to your table. These creative presentations make the Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe a showstopper at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover buns, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Because these buns are best enjoyed fresh, their texture might soften overnight, but they will still be delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze unfried dough rounds after the first rise by wrapping them tightly and placing them in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw, allow the second rise, then fry as usual. Fried and filled buns do not freeze well because the texture of the filling and dough changes when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated buns gently in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes to revive their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the buns rubbery and the filling too warm.
FAQs
Can I bake these buns instead of frying?
While frying gives the Danish Carnival Buns their classic crispy exterior, you can bake them at 375°F for about 15 minutes until golden. The texture will be softer and less crispy, but still delicious.
What if I don’t have cardamom?
Cardamom provides an authentic Nordic flavor, but if you don’t have it, a small amount of cinnamon or nutmeg can be used as a substitute. Just use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the vanilla filling.
Can I use store-bought vanilla pudding instead of pastry cream?
Yes! A thick store-bought vanilla pudding works perfectly and speeds up the process without sacrificing taste.
How long does the dough need to rise?
The first rise should take about one hour or until the dough doubles in size. The second rise after cutting the rounds is usually 30 minutes to create the fluffy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe uses no meat products, making it a wonderful treat for those following a vegetarian diet.
Final Thoughts
Making Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe is like inviting a little piece of Danish celebration into your kitchen. The sweet, cardamom-infused dough with silky vanilla cream creates a comforting bite that feels both luxurious and homey. Whether you’re sharing them with family or keeping them as a special solo treat, these carnival buns are bound to become a cherished favorite. So gather your ingredients, turn up some happy tunes, and enjoy the magic of baking these delightful treats!
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Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 buns
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Danish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these traditional Danish Carnival Buns filled with creamy vanilla pastry cream. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these sweet buns are fried to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfectly flavored with cardamom, they bring a taste of Scandinavian festivity to your table.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Filling & Topping
- 1/2 cup vanilla pastry cream or thick vanilla pudding
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Neutral oil, for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes or until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Stir in the granulated sugar, egg, and melted butter into the yeast mixture until well combined.
- Prepare Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cardamom to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Shape Buns: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cut the dough into rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and allow them to rise again for 30 minutes.
- Heat Oil: Heat neutral oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
- Fry Buns: Fry the buns in batches in the hot oil until golden brown on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Turn once to ensure even cooking. Remove the buns and drain on paper towels.
- Fill Buns: Once the buns have cooled slightly, pipe the vanilla pastry cream or pudding inside each bun using a piping bag.
- Serve: Dust the filled buns generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- These buns are traditionally served during Fastelavn in Denmark.
- Cardamom adds a classic Nordic flavor but can be reduced if preferred.
- Best enjoyed fresh the day they are made for optimal texture and flavor.
