Norwegian Cardamom Chocolate Rolls

These fragrant Norwegian cardamom rolls fill the house with the unique scent of ground cardamom and freshly baked bread. Pillowy soft and threaded with chocolate chips, they are perfect with a cup of coffee or for an afternoon treat. I love baking these on chilly weekends because they feel extra special yet come together with only a handful of basic ingredients.

I first baked these rolls for a Scandinavian-themed brunch and my family could not stop talking about them. Now they are a staple whenever we want to treat ourselves to fresh homemade bread.

Ingredients

• Flour: Gives structure to the rolls; choose high-quality all-purpose or bread flour for the best texture
• Milk: Ensures a soft and tender crumb; use whole milk if possible for richness
• Sugar: Brings a gentle sweetness and helps the rolls brown nicely
• Fresh yeast or dry yeast: Hydrates and helps the dough rise; make sure your yeast is fresh for a good rise
• Cardamom: Infuses the rolls with floral spice; freshly ground cardamom makes a big difference in flavor
• Butter: Adds richness and softness; let it soften completely for easy mixing
• Chocolate chips: Provide delicious contrast and melts into the dough; pick semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a more sophisticated taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Warm and Dissolve the Yeast:

Warm the milk just until lukewarm to help activate the yeast without killing it. Crumble the fresh yeast and stir into the milk until fully dissolved. If using dry yeast, let it bloom for a few minutes until foamy.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Combine flour, sugar, and finely ground cardamom in a large mixing bowl. Make sure the cardamom is well blended throughout for even flavor.

Combine Wet and Dry:

Pour the milk and yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Use an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook and mix on low speed for about ten minutes. If you do not have a mixer, knead by hand on a lightly floured surface until you get a silky smooth dough.

Incorporate Butter:

Add the softened butter a little at a time while mixing. Take your time with this step so each bit is fully absorbed before adding more. The dough will become glossy and soft.

Add Chocolate Chips and First Rise:

Stop the mixer and gently fold in the chocolate chips with a rubber spatula. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest in a warm spot for about one and a half hours or until doubled in size. The dough will be light and puffy.

Shape the Rolls:

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured counter. Divide evenly into nine pieces; you can use a kitchen scale to ensure equal weight. Roll each piece into a ball and lightly flatten the bottom. Place the rolls spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Final Rise:

Let the rolls proof uncovered at room temperature for forty-five minutes or until slightly puffed and soft to the touch.

Brush and Bake:

Brush the tops of each roll gently with a little milk to help them brown and keep the crust soft. For a shinier finish, switch to an egg wash. Bake in a preheated oven at two hundred twenty-five degrees Celsius or four hundred forty degrees Fahrenheit for about twelve minutes until golden brown on top and baked through.

Pin it

My favorite part of making these is the moment you bite in and get the surprise of melted chocolate inside an airy cardamom-scented roll. My kids always argue over who gets the gooeyest one and it has become a tradition to bake an extra batch just for the freezer.

Storage Tips

Let the rolls cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, pop them in a freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. Defrost at room temperature or warm up in a low oven wrapped in foil to refresh them. I have pulled out leftover rolls weeks after baking and they are just as delicious as day one.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh yeast, dry yeast works just as well; just be sure to follow the right measurement. Swap the chocolate chips for chopped dark chocolate, orange zest, or even raisins for a different flavor profile. If you miss the shine of an eggwash, simply brush the baked rolls with a dab of melted butter just after they come out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are perfect as breakfast with a strong cup of coffee or as a cozy afternoon snack. Serve them warm with a pat of butter or alongside a tangy fruit jam. For a Scandinavian-style treat, try pairing them with mild cheeses or a glass of hot cocoa on a snowy day.

Pin it

Making these Norwegian cardamom rolls always reminds me of cozy mornings and the joy of baking for loved ones. If you try these once, they might just become your favorite weekend baking project too.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How important is cardamom in these rolls?

Cardamom provides a signature fragrance and flavor, giving the rolls their distinct Norwegian aroma and subtle spice profile.

→ Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh?

Yes, dry yeast works perfectly. Use the equivalent amount, ensuring it’s properly dissolved in lukewarm milk before mixing.

→ What's the best way to ensure fluffy rolls?

Allow the dough to rise fully after mixing and shaping. Proper kneading and resting times develop light, airy texture.

→ Are chocolate chips traditional in Norwegian rolls?

Classic rolls use only cardamom, but chocolate chips add a modern twist and extra indulgence.

→ Can I substitute the milk wash with egg wash?

Egg wash gives a shinier crust, while milk keeps the rolls soft. Either works, depending on your preference.