Skoleboller Festive Norwegian Coconut Custard Buns

Skoleboller: Festive Norwegian Coconut Custard Buns that Bring Joy to the Season

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are searching for traditional treats to fill our tables with warmth and cheer. One such treasure is the Skoleboller, a beloved Norwegian festive bun filled with creamy coconut custard. These sweet, fluffy buns have been a staple in Norwegian bakeries and households for generations, and for good reason.

The Origins of Skoleboller

The name "Skoleboller" translates to "school buns" in Norwegian, and it’s no surprise that these sweet treats were originally served at Norwegian schools during the holiday season. According to tradition, Skoleboller were baked in large quantities and distributed to students as a special treat during the festive period. Today, Skoleboller are still a popular holiday tradition, enjoyed by people of all ages.

What Makes Skoleboller So Special?

So, what makes Skoleboller so special? For starters, the bun itself is light and airy, with a delicate crust that gives way to a soft, buttery interior. But it’s the filling that truly sets Skoleboller apart. A generous dollop of creamy coconut custard adds a rich, velvety texture to each bite, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the bun. The combination is nothing short of magical.

How to Make Skoleboller at Home

While you may not be able to find Skoleboller at your local bakery, making them at home is surprisingly easy. With a few simple ingredients and some basic baking skills, you can create these festive buns in no time.

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup coconut custard (see below for recipe)
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Coconut Custard Recipe:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is activated and foamy.
3. Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes elastic and smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 6-8 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it slightly into a disk shape.
8. Place a tablespoon of coconut custard in the center of each disk. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal the bun.
9. Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
10. Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
11. Dust the buns with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.

Conclusion

Skoleboller are a true festive treat that will bring joy to your holiday season. With their light, fluffy buns and creamy coconut custard filling, it’s no wonder these buns have been a Norwegian tradition for generations. Whether you’re making them at home or enjoying them at a holiday market, Skoleboller are the perfect treat to share with friends and family. So go ahead, indulge in the sweetness of Skoleboller, and experience the joy of the holiday season.

Skoleboller Festive Norwegian Coconut Custard Buns