This delightful Orange Cardamom Breakfast Twist is a show-stopping pastry that combines the bright, zesty flavor of orange with the warm, spicy aroma of cardamom. Perfect for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or as a sweet afternoon treat, this braided bread is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant presentation: The braided design makes it perfect for special occasions or entertaining guests.
- Easy to make: Despite its intricate look, this recipe is simple and straightforward to prepare.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of citrusy orange and earthy cardamom creates a unique and memorable flavor profile.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the filling with other spices or flavorings to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Instant yeast
- Ground cardamom
- Salt
- Orange zest
- Milk
- Unsalted butter
- Egg
- Orange juice
- Powdered sugar (for glaze)
Directions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, cardamom, salt, and orange zest. Heat milk and butter together until warm, then mix into the dry ingredients. Add the egg and knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Let it rise until doubled in size.
- Make the filling: Mix softened butter, sugar, cardamom, and orange zest into a smooth paste.
- Shape the twist: Roll the dough into a rectangle, spread the filling evenly, and roll it into a log. Slice the log lengthwise, exposing the layers, and twist the halves together, forming a braid. Place it in a baking pan and allow it to rise again.
- Bake: Preheat the oven and bake until the pastry is golden brown and fragrant.
- Glaze: Mix orange juice and powdered sugar into a smooth glaze and drizzle over the cooled twist.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Rising time: 1.5-2 hours
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Cinnamon twist: Substitute cardamom with ground cinnamon for a classic cinnamon twist.
- Nutty filling: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking.
- Citrus twist: Try lemon or grapefruit zest instead of orange for a different citrus flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for longer storage.
- Reheating: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight.
2. What if I don’t have cardamom?
You can substitute it with cinnamon or nutmeg, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
3. Can I use a bread machine for the dough?
Yes, you can use a bread machine on the dough cycle to save time.
4. How do I prevent the twist from unraveling?
Pinch the ends of the twist firmly together and tuck them under when placing it in the pan.
5. Can I freeze the baked twist?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
6. Is it possible to make this vegan?
Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as substitutes.
7. Can I add dried fruit to the filling?
Yes, raisins or chopped dried apricots pair wonderfully with the orange cardamom flavors.
8. What’s the best way to zest an orange?
Use a microplane or fine grater, taking care to avoid the bitter white pith.
9. What type of yeast should I use?
Instant yeast is recommended, but active dry yeast works if you proof it in warm milk first.
10. How can I tell if the bread is fully baked?
The twist should be golden brown, and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center should read 190°F.
Conclusion
The Orange Cardamom Breakfast Twist is a delightful addition to any breakfast table, offering a unique blend of flavors and an elegant presentation. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to brighten your morning, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a slice of sunshine in every bite!
PrintOrange Cardamom Breakfast Twist
This delightful Orange Cardamom Breakfast Twist is a soft and fragrant pastry, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Infused with the zesty brightness of orange and the warm, spicy notes of cardamom, this braided bread is a show-stopper for any table. Enjoy it with your morning coffee or tea for a comforting treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp orange zest (from 1–2 oranges)
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cardamom. Add warm milk, orange juice, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes. - First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. - Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, sugar, orange zest, and cardamom until combined. Set aside. - Shape the Twist:
Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Spread the filling evenly over the surface. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one long side. Using a sharp knife, slice the log lengthwise down the center to expose the layers. Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing up and form a ring or keep it straight. - Second Rise:
Transfer the twist to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for 30-45 minutes. - Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the twist for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. - Glaze (Optional):
While the twist cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pastry.
Notes
- For a more intense cardamom flavor, increase the cardamom in the filling to 1 1/2 tsp.
- This twist freezes well; wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month.