Julekake is a traditional Norwegian Christmas bread that fills the kitchen with warm, festive aromas. This sweet, spiced loaf is loaded with raisins, candied citrus peel, and cardamom, making it a holiday favorite across Scandinavia. Baking Julekake in a bread machine simplifies the process while still delivering that authentic, soft texture we love.
Using a bread machine means we can enjoy this festive treat without the fuss of kneading or long rising times. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to bring a taste of Norwegian holiday cheer to their table with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this Julekake bread machine recipe will become a go-to for cozy winter mornings and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
To bake an authentic Julekake using our bread machine, we gather a blend of dry, wet, and optional mix-in ingredients that combine to give the bread its characteristic sweet, spiced flavor and moist texture. Below is a detailed list organized for seamless preparation.
Dry Ingredients
We start with the foundation by measuring and preparing our dry ingredients precisely:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons ground cardamom (key for that classic Norwegian spice)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup raisins (rinsed and patted dry)
- 1/2 cup candied citrus peel (finely chopped)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups | Plus extra for kneading/dusting |
| Ground cardamom | 2 teaspoons | Freshly ground preferred |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | |
| Active dry yeast | 2 teaspoons | |
| Raisins | 1 cup | Rinsed, dried |
| Candied citrus peel | 1/2 cup | Finely chopped |
Wet Ingredients
Next we prepare the wet components that hydrate and enrich the dough:
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (between 100°F and 110°F)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Warmed to 100°F–110°F |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Melted and cooled |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
Optional Mix-Ins
For those who want to customize our Julekake further, these add-ins enhance texture and flavor without overpowering:
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds (lightly toasted)
- 1/4 cup dark rum or orange juice (to soak the raisins for extra depth)
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange
We recommend soaking raisins in rum or orange juice for at least 30 minutes before adding to the dough for maximum flavor infusion. Toasted almonds bring a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft crumb.
By preparing these ingredients in advance and organizing them by category, we simplify the bread machine process ensuring our Julekake achieves the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and traditional charm.
Equipment Needed
To achieve the perfect Julekake Bread Machine Recipe results, having the right equipment is essential. Below we outline the key tools that will streamline the process and ensure excellent flavor and texture every time.
Bread Machine Specifications
Choosing the appropriate bread machine can make all the difference. For our Julekake, we recommend a machine with specific features to handle the enriched dough and mix-ins gently.
| Feature | Recommended Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.5 to 2 pounds (ideal for a medium-sized loaf) |
| Kneading Cycles | Multiple kneading settings to thoroughly combine spices and fruits |
| Dough Setting | Must include a “dough” or “sweet bread” setting |
| Pan Type | Non-stick removable pan for easy extraction |
| Pulse or Add-in Signal | Helps add raisins and candied peel at the right time |
| Temperature Control | Precise control for proofing and baking |
Make sure your bread machine has a sweet bread or enriched dough cycle. This setting is crucial to handle the richer dough without overworking it, preserving the tender crumb and distributing raisins and citrus peel evenly.
Additional Tools
Alongside your bread machine, gather these additional tools to prepare and finish your Julekake flawlessly:
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
For precise measurement of flour, sugar, yeast, and spices.
- Small Bowls
Ideal for soaking raisins in dark rum or orange juice to enhance flavor.
- Rubber Spatula
Helps scrape down the sides of the bread pan and fold in ingredients if needed.
- Cooling Rack
Allows the bread to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess.
- Kitchen Timer
Helpful to track soak time for raisins and monitor rising if your machine doesn’t have a timer.
By having these tools on hand, we ensure every step of the Julekake Bread Machine Recipe process is smooth, from prep to serving.
Preparation
To ensure our Julekake turns out perfectly rich and flavorful, careful preparation is key. Let’s get everything ready step by step for a smooth bread machine process.
Preparing the Ingredients
We start by preparing our ingredients precisely, as this affects both the texture and traditional taste of this Norwegian Christmas bread.
- Soak the Raisins:
Place 1 cup of raisins in a small bowl. Add either 2 tablespoons of dark rum or orange juice to soak for at least 30 minutes. This plumps the raisins and adds moistness and flavor.
- Measure Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine:
-
3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cardamom (freshly ground for best aroma)
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- Prepare Wet Ingredients:
Warm the liquid components to about 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast but not kill it. Use a thermometer for precision. In a measuring cup, beat:
- 1¾ cups whole milk (warmed)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
-
2 large eggs
- Optional Mix-Ins:
If desired, prepare:
- ½ cup candied citrus peel (cut into small pieces)
- ½ cup slivered almonds
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Raisins | 1 cup | Soak in rum or orange juice |
| All-purpose flour | 3½ cups | Measured dry |
| Ground cardamom | 2 teaspoons | Freshly ground |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Measured dry |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | Measured dry |
| Active dry yeast | 2¼ teaspoons | Measured dry |
| Whole milk | 1¾ cups | Warmed to 110°F (43°C) |
| Unsalted butter | ⅓ cup | Melted and cooled |
| Large eggs | 2 | Beaten |
| Candied citrus peel | ½ cup (optional) | Chopped |
| Slivered almonds | ½ cup (optional) | Ready to add |
Setting Up the Bread Machine
Properly setting up our bread machine will ensure the Julekake dough mixes, rises, and bakes perfectly with no fuss.
- Check the Bread Pan:
Use the bread machine’s removable pan. Ensure it is clean and the kneading paddle is firmly attached.
- Add Ingredients in Order:
Always follow the machine’s guidelines. Generally, liquids go in first, then dry ingredients, with yeast added last.
- Pour in the warmed milk, melted butter, and beaten eggs.
- Add the dry flour mixture evenly over the wet layer.
- Create a small well in the flour without reaching the wet layer; add the yeast here.
- Load Mix-Ins at the Signal:
When the bread machine beeps or signals the “add-in” stage:
- Drain the soaked raisins well and add them in along with candied peel and slivered almonds. This prevents the mix-ins from crushing during kneading.
- Select the Program Settings:
Choose the “Sweet Bread” or “Dough” cycle with a crust preference to light or medium for the best results.
- Set the Timer (If Needed):
If preparing ahead, use the delayed start feature so the bread finishes fresh when desired.
Using these preparation steps, our bread machine will create a beautifully spiced and tender Julekake, bursting with plump raisins and aromatic cardamom.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to effortlessly prepare Julekake in your bread machine. This detailed guide ensures every ingredient and cycle supports the traditional flavors and perfect texture.
Adding Ingredients to the Bread Machine
- Start with the wet ingredients:
Pour the warmed whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and large eggs into the bread machine pan. This order prevents yeast activation before mixing.
- Add the dry ingredients:
Gently spoon in the all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, sugar, salt, and active dry yeast. Keep the yeast separate from the salt and wet ingredients initially to maintain yeast effectiveness.
- Load the mix-ins last:
Add the soaked raisins and candied citrus peel evenly on top of the flour. If using optional slivered almonds, include them now. This layering allows the bread machine to distribute mix-ins evenly during the kneading phase.
- Use the pulse or add-in signal if available:
When the bread machine signals, add the soaked mix-ins to avoid over-processing them.
Tip: Always ensure ingredients are measured precisely and at the correct temperatures for your Julekake bread machine recipe success.
Selecting the Correct Bread Cycle
Select a bread cycle designed for enriched or sweet breads to accommodate the fats and sugars in Julekake.
| Bread Machine Setting | Purpose | Recommended Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Bread | Handles sugar and rich doughs | Best for sweet and spiced bread like Julekake |
| Dough | Mixes and rises dough but skips baking | Use if you want to shape and bake separately |
| Basic/White Bread | Standard cycle, may over-knead or bake too long | Less ideal due to sugar content |
- Choose Sweet Bread or Enriched Dough settings when available.
- Set the loaf size to 1.5 or 2 pounds based on your bread machine specifications.
- Aim for a medium or light crust setting for a soft golden finish.
Baking Process
- Start the machine:
Once all ingredients are loaded, close the lid and start the bread machine on the selected cycle.
- Monitor kneading and rising:
The machine will knead the dough for 30-40 minutes, then allow it to rise. The dough should be smooth and elastic with visible mix-ins distributed.
- Add mix-ins if prompted:
When the machine signals, add any remaining mix-ins like soaked raisins to prevent clumping or crushing.
- Final bake:
The bread machine will bake the Julekake for approximately 45-60 minutes depending on the cycle and loaf size.
- Cool the bread:
Remove the loaf immediately after baking and transfer it to a cooling rack. Allow the bread to cool for at least 30 minutes to set the crumb and fully develop flavors.
“Patience at this stage ensures a tender crumb and rich aroma worthy of a traditional Christmas table.”
By following these detailed instructions, our Julekake bread machine recipe will deliver a beautifully spiced, soft, and flavorful Norwegian bread with minimal effort.
Tips and Tricks
Mastering the Julekake Bread Machine Recipe becomes effortless when we apply a few key tips and tricks. These insights help us achieve the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and traditional charm in every loaf.
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
Achieving the perfect texture in our Julekake depends on precise control during each stage of preparation. Here are crucial steps to ensure a soft, moist crumb with a tender crust:
- Use Warmed Ingredients: Always warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast gently without killing it.
- Order of Ingredients Matters: Add wet ingredients first, followed by dry, to promote even hydration and smooth kneading.
- Optimal Bread Machine Settings: Select the “sweet bread” or “enriched dough” cycle. These cycles include longer kneading and slower rising times to develop gluten properly in higher-fat doughs.
- Monitor Dough Consistency: The dough should form a slightly sticky ball during kneading. If it’s too dry, add water teaspoon by teaspoon. Too wet, add flour similarly.
- Add Mix-ins at the Right Time: Use the bread machine’s add-in signal for raisins and candied citrus peel to avoid soggy or crushed fruit.
- Proper Cooling: Remove the baked bread promptly, and cool on a wire rack to prevent a soggy bottom crust.
| Factor | Recommended Approach | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Milk Temperature | 110°F (43°C) | Optimal yeast activation |
| Kneading Cycle | Sweet Bread / Enriched Dough Setting | Supports rich dough development |
| Dough Texture | Slightly sticky dough ball | Ensures hydrated flour and soft crumb |
| Add-ins Timing | Add at bread machine signal | Maintains fruit integrity and even distribution |
| Cooling Method | Wire rack immediately after baking | Prevents condensation and soggy crust |
Variations and Flavor Enhancements
While traditional Julekake shines on its own, we can customize the flavor to suit our holiday table perfectly:
- Soak Raisins in Different Liquids: Experiment with rum, brandy, orange juice, or even brewed tea for subtle flavor shifts.
- Add Nuts: Slivered almonds or chopped walnuts add a pleasant crunch.
- Spice Adjustments: Increase or decrease ground cardamom or try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Citrus Twist: Replace candied citrus peel with finely chopped dried apricots or cranberries for varied fruitiness.
- Glaze Finish: Brush warm bread with melted butter mixed with honey or maple syrup for a glossy, sweet crust.
- Zest Infusion: Add lemon or orange zest into the dough to brighten flavors without changing texture.
We encourage creativity while respecting the Julekake tradition by keeping the core spices and textures intact. This bread machine recipe is flexible, allowing us to tailor each bake for memorable holiday celebrations.
Serving Suggestions
Julekake is a versatile bread that shines best when paired thoughtfully. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy this traditional Norwegian Christmas treat along with essential advice on how to store it for optimal freshness.
Traditional Ways to Serve Julekake
We recommend serving Julekake warm or at room temperature to fully appreciate its soft texture and spiced aroma. Here are some classic serving ideas to enhance your experience:
- Butter and Cheese: Spread a generous layer of creamy butter, or opt for butter combined with a mild cheese such as Jarlsberg or a sharp white cheddar. This contrast amplifies the subtle sweetness and spice.
- Accompany with Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or black tea balances the richness and brings out the cardamom notes perfectly.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve Julekake sliced thickly alongside scrambled eggs or smoked salmon for a festive holiday spread.
- With Jams and Preserves: Tart fruit jams such as lingonberry or raspberry add a fruity brightness complementing the candied citrus peel.
- Toasted: Lightly toasting slices brings a slight crispness and caramelizes the sugars for an indulgent treat.
“Enjoying a slice of Julekake with hearty butter and freshly brewed coffee is our go-to holiday ritual.”
| Serving Method | Description | Flavor Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Butter and Cheese | Spread butter or mild cheese like Jarlsberg | Creamy, savory contrast to sweetness |
| Coffee or Tea | Pair with hot black coffee or robust tea | Enhances cardamom and sugar balance |
| Breakfast Spread | Serve with eggs or smoked salmon | Rich, satisfying, festive |
| Jams and Preserves | Lingonberry or raspberry jam | Tartness brightens candied citrus peel |
| Toasted Slices | Lightly toasted for crisp edges | Caramelized sugar with crunch |
Storage and Shelf Life
Preserving the freshness and softness of our Julekake is crucial to enjoying it over several days. Follow these storage tips to maintain its signature texture and flavor:
- Room Temperature: Store the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the bread.
- Freezing: For longer storage, slice the Julekake before freezing. Wrap slices individually or in small batches using plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To thaw, leave slices at room temperature or warm them gently in a toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until soft and fragrant.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Wrap tightly, avoid fridge |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Slice before freezing, wrap individually or in batches |
| Thawing | As needed | Room temp thaw or gentle oven warming |
“Proper storage ensures each slice tastes as fresh and delightful as when it was first baked.”
By pairing Julekake thoughtfully and caring for its freshness, we can fully savor this festive bread throughout our holiday celebrations.
Conclusion
Julekake made in a bread machine brings tradition and convenience together effortlessly. With the right ingredients and settings, it’s easy to create a loaf that’s fragrant, tender, and full of holiday spirit.
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to fit smoothly into your festive routine. Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors with your favorite accompaniments and share the joy of a homemade Norwegian classic with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Julekake?
Julekake is a traditional Norwegian Christmas bread made with sweet and spiced ingredients like raisins, candied citrus peel, and cardamom, commonly enjoyed during the holiday season.
Can I use a bread machine to bake Julekake?
Yes, a bread machine is ideal for baking Julekake. It simplifies the process by handling kneading and rising, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced bakers.
What are the key ingredients for Julekake?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, salt, sugar, active dry yeast, raisins, candied citrus peel, warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs.
Should I soak the raisins before baking?
Soaking raisins in dark rum or orange juice is recommended. It enhances their flavor and keeps them moist, contributing to the bread’s overall taste and texture.
What bread machine features are important for Julekake?
Look for a 1.5 to 2-pound capacity, multiple kneading cycles, “dough” or “sweet bread” settings, a non-stick removable pan, an add-in signal, and precise temperature control.
How should I add ingredients to the bread machine?
Add wet ingredients first, then dry ingredients, and finally add mix-ins like raisins and candied peel when the machine signals for additions.
Can I customize the Julekake recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different soaking liquids, add nuts, adjust spices, or include citrus zest to personalize the bread while keeping its traditional essence.
How do I serve Julekake?
Serve Julekake warm or at room temperature, paired with butter, cheese, coffee, tea, or breakfast items like scrambled eggs and smoked salmon.
How do I store Julekake to keep it fresh?
Wrap Julekake tightly and store at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Is Julekake suitable for beginners to bake?
Absolutely. Using a bread machine for Julekake makes the process simple and foolproof for bakers of all skill levels.