We’ve always loved Julekake a traditional Norwegian Christmas bread that’s bursting with festive flavors like cardamom raisins and candied peel. This easy bread machine version brings holiday warmth straight to your kitchen without the fuss of kneading by hand.
Originating from Norway Julekake symbolizes the joy of the season and it’s perfect for gifting or enjoying with family. We’ll walk you through our simple recipe so you can bake this aromatic loaf and make your holidays even more special.
Ingredients
In our Julekake bread machine recipe, we focus on simple yet flavorful ingredients that capture the essence of this traditional Norwegian Christmas bread. These components blend to create an aromatic loaf infused with warm cardamom, plump raisins, and zesty candied peel, evoking holiday joy with every slice.
We organize the ingredients in the order they should be added to the bread machine for optimal results. Always measure precisely to ensure a perfect rise and texture.
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk, warmed to 80°F (21°C) to activate the yeast effectively
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature for easy incorporation
- 3 cups bread flour, sifted to remove lumps and promote a light crumb
- ¼ cup granulated sugar, which adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spices
- 1 teaspoon salt, to enhance the overall flavor profile
- 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast, proofed if desired for reliable rising
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, freshly ground if possible for a more vibrant aroma
- ½ cup raisins, plumped in warm water and drained to prevent drying out during baking
- ¼ cup candied citrus peel, finely chopped for even distribution and a burst of tang
These ingredients yield one standard loaf, making it ideal for sharing during festive gatherings.
Equipment Needed
After gathering our ingredients for the Julekake bread machine recipe, we turn our attention to the essential equipment that ensures a hassle-free baking process. This setup not only simplifies preparation but also helps achieve the perfect texture and aroma in our festive loaf.
To get started, here’s a detailed list of the key tools we’ll need:
- Bread Machine: Our primary appliance for this recipe, it handles mixing, kneading, and baking with minimal effort. We recommend a model with at least a 1- to 2-pound loaf capacity to accommodate the Julekake dough and ensure even rising.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the best results, so we’ll use a set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and liquid measuring cups (for milk) along with spoons for smaller quantities like salt and yeast.
- Digital Kitchen Scale: For precision in weighing ingredients such as flour and butter, which can affect the dough’s consistency. If you’re new to baking, we find this tool invaluable for avoiding common pitfalls like over-flouring.
- Small Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining dry ingredients like cardamom and yeast before adding them to the bread machine, helping to distribute flavors evenly.
If you’re tracking multiple recipes or comparing equipment features, here’s a quick overview in table form:
| Equipment Item | Purpose | Recommended Features |
|---|---|---|
| Bread Machine | Mixes, kneads, and bakes the loaf | 1-2 lb capacity, timer function |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Ensures precise ingredient amounts | Heat-resistant, clearly marked |
| Digital Kitchen Scale | Weighs ingredients accurately | Tare function, up to 5 kg capacity |
| Small Mixing Bowl | Pre-mixes dry ingredients | Microwave-safe, 2-4 cup size |
With this equipment on hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, making our Julekake bread machine recipe both efficient and enjoyable.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through baking a fragrant Julekake loaf effortlessly in your bread machine.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start the machine, let’s prepare our ingredients for optimal flavor and texture. Begin by measuring 1 cup of whole milk and warming it to lukewarm temperature—around 110°F—to activate the yeast effectively. Next, soften 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter by letting it sit at room temperature or microwaving it briefly until pliable.
In a small bowl, combine the dry components: whisk together 3 cups of bread flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom for that signature spicy warmth. Ground cardamom adds a distinctive aromatic essence that defines our Julekake. Separately, plump ½ cup of raisins and ¼ cup of candied citrus peel by soaking them in warm water for 5 minutes then draining—this step ensures they integrate smoothly without drying out the dough. Finally, proof 2¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast by sprinkling it over the warm milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes until it foams, confirming it’s active.
Add to Bread Machine
With ingredients prepped, we add them to the bread machine in the correct order to promote even mixing and rising. First, pour in the lukewarm milk mixed with the proofed yeast as the liquid base. Add the softened butter on top to create a smooth emulsion.
Follow with the dry mixture: add the flour-sugar-salt-cardamom blend next to form the dough structure. For even distribution, sprinkle the plumped raisins and candied citrus peel over the top—avoid burying them too deep to prevent clumping. Double-check measurements before closing the lid, as precision ensures our Julekake achieves a light, airy crumb with bursts of fruity sweetness.
Run the Cycle
Now we let the machine do the work to develop that perfect texture. Select the basic or sweet bread setting on your bread machine, choosing a 2-pound loaf size and a medium crust color for balanced results. Press start and let the cycle run for approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on your model’s specifications—this includes kneading, rising, and baking phases where the dough transforms into a golden, cardamom-scented loaf.
Monitor the machine occasionally through the viewing window to ensure everything progresses smoothly, but resist opening it prematurely to maintain the ideal internal temperature. The enticing aroma of baking Julekake with its warm spices and citrus notes will fill your kitchen, signaling holiday magic in every step.
Run the Cycle
Now we let the machine do the work to develop that perfect texture. Select the basic or sweet bread setting on your bread machine, choosing a 2-pound loaf size and a medium crust color for balanced results. Press start and let the cycle run for approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on your model’s specifications—this includes kneading, rising, and baking phases where the dough transforms into a golden, cardamom-scented loaf.
Monitor the machine occasionally through the viewing window to ensure everything progresses smoothly, but resist opening it prematurely to maintain the ideal internal temperature. The enticing aroma of baking Julekake with its warm spices and citrus notes will fill your kitchen, signaling holiday magic in every step.
Cool and Serve
Once the cycle finishes, we carefully remove the hot loaf from the bread machine using oven mitts to avoid burns, then transfer it to a wire rack for cooling—this step prevents sogginess and locks in the bread’s soft interior. Allow it to cool for at least 1 hour so the flavors meld and the crumb sets, revealing a tender texture with chewy raisins and a glossy, spiced crust.
Slice our freshly baked Julekake into thick pieces to showcase its moist, flavorful interior, perfect for spreading with butter or enjoying plain. The bread’s rich cardamom aroma and sweet citrus tang make it an ideal treat for holiday breakfasts or gifting, evoking the joy of Norwegian traditions in every bite.
Make-Ahead Tips
We know holiday preparations can be hectic, so let’s dive into practical strategies for preparing our Julekake bread machine recipe ahead of time. These tips help maintain the bread’s rich cardamom aroma and moist texture while saving you time on busy days.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
To streamline our baking process, we recommend prepping ingredients the night before. Start by measuring out 1 cup whole milk and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, then warm them slightly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For dry components, combine 3 cups bread flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, and 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast in a bowl. Add 1/2 cup raisins and 1/4 cup candied citrus peel separately in sealed bags to prevent sogginess. This setup ensures everything is ready for the bread machine, letting you focus on the festive scents as the bread bakes.
Making Dough Ahead
If you want to prepare the dough in advance, we suggest proofing the yeast first by dissolving it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar, then letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Once mixed in the bread machine, remove the dough after the initial knead cycle (typically 10-15 minutes) and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, let it rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours before returning it to the machine for the bake cycle. This method preserves the dough’s fluffy rise and enhances flavors, making our Julekake even more aromatic.
Storing Baked Julekake
After baking and cooling our Julekake on a wire rack, store it to retain its sweet citrus notes and soft crumb. Here’s a quick guide to storage options:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 days | Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place in a bread box to keep it fresh and prevent staleness. |
| Refrigerator | 5-7 days | Slice the bread first if needed, then store in an airtight container to avoid drying out—reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double-wrap in plastic and foil, or use freezer bags, to lock in moisture—thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes for that just-baked warmth. |
By following these steps, we can enjoy our Julekake’s holiday spice blend whenever the moment calls, without compromising on quality.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Julekake bread machine recipe with you
It’s a straightforward way to bring holiday magic into your kitchen
As we wrap up let’s encourage you to bake and savor those warm spices
You’ll find it adds a special touch to your festive traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Julekake?
Julekake is a traditional Norwegian Christmas bread packed with festive flavors like cardamom, raisins, and candied peel. It’s a symbol of holiday joy, often shared or gifted during celebrations, and represents Norwegian culture with its aromatic and spiced taste.
What ingredients are needed for this Julekake recipe?
For this easy bread machine recipe, you’ll need whole milk, unsalted butter, bread flour, granulated sugar, salt, active dry yeast, ground cardamom, raisins, and candied citrus peel. These simple ingredients make one standard loaf, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and texture when measured accurately.
Do I need a bread machine to make Julekake?
While a bread machine simplifies the process by handling kneading and rising, you can make Julekake by hand if needed. Just follow the steps manually, proof the yeast, and knead the dough thoroughly. This recipe is adaptable for home bakers without specialized equipment.
How long does it take to bake Julekake in a bread machine?
The baking process takes about 3 to 4 hours in a bread machine, including mixing, rising, and baking cycles. Start by preparing ingredients like warming milk and softening butter, then add them in the correct order for optimal results.
How should I store homemade Julekake?
Allow Julekake to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. Keep it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature to preserve its fresh cardamom aroma and texture.
Can I make Julekake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients the night before to save time. Bake the bread and store it as needed: at room temperature for short-term, refrigerated for a few days, or frozen for longer. This makes it easy to enjoy Julekake’s holiday flavors whenever you want.
What does Julekake taste like?
Julekake has a warm, aromatic flavor from cardamom, with sweet notes from raisins and candied peel. It’s soft and slightly sweet, perfect for holiday breakfasts or snacking, evoking the joy of Norwegian traditions in every bite.