Cardamom Buns

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, 1 tablespoon cardamom, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the melted butter and egg to the milk mixture, then pour into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First rise
   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Make the filling
   While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter, brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cardamom, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
4. Shape the buns
   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×20 inches (40×50 cm). Spread the cardamom filling evenly over the dough. Fold the dough into thirds like a letter, then roll it out again into a 12×16 inch (30×40 cm) rectangle. Cut the dough into 12 equal strips.
5. Create the knots
   Twist each strip several times, then wrap it around your fingers twice to form a knot, tucking the ends underneath. Place the knots on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each bun.
6. Second rise
   Cover the shaped buns with kitchen towels and let rise for another 45-60 minutes until puffy.
7. Bake the buns
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the buns with beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl or coarse sugar. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.