Pullaan

Pullaan is a type of sweet bread or pastry, most commonly associated with Finnish baking traditions. It is often flavored with cardamom, which gives it a distinctive aromatic quality. The dough is typically enriched with butter, sugar, and eggs, resulting in a soft and slightly sweet crumb.

While the basic ingredients are simple, the preparation of pullaan can involve various shaping techniques. Common forms include braids, knots, and loaves, often decorated with pearl sugar or slivered almonds. It is frequently enjoyed as a coffee accompaniment, a practice deeply ingrained in Finnish culture, known as "pullahtelu."

Variations of pullaan exist, with some recipes incorporating ingredients like cinnamon, raisins, or even chocolate. The dough can also be used as a base for other pastries, such as cinnamon buns, though the term "pullaan" itself usually refers to the plain, cardamom-spiced bread. Its popularity extends beyond Finland, with similar sweet breads found in other Nordic countries and amongst communities with Scandinavian heritage. The making and sharing of pullaan are often associated with social gatherings and holidays.