julbröd

Julbröd is a type of sweet bread traditionally baked in Sweden and other Nordic countries during the Christmas season. Its ingredients and preparation can vary significantly from region to region and even family to family, but common elements often include spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, as well as dried fruits such as raisins and candied peel. Nuts like almonds or hazelnuts are also frequently incorporated. The dough is typically enriched with butter, eggs, and milk, resulting in a soft and often dense texture.

The appearance of julbröd can also differ. Some loaves are shaped into simple rounds or oblongs, while others are braided or formed into more elaborate decorative shapes. Often, the top is brushed with an egg wash before baking to give it a golden sheen, and it may be further adorned with chopped nuts, pearl sugar, or icing after baking. The sweet and spiced flavor profile makes it a popular accompaniment to coffee or glögg, a mulled wine, during festive gatherings. Recipes for julbröd are often passed down through generations, holding sentimental as well as culinary value.