Orange Cardamom Sourdough Buns
Bright citrus and warm spice wrapped in tender sourdough layers — aromatic, elegant, and made for slow mornings.
At a Glance
Loaf Style: Rolled, sliced enriched buns
Skill Level: Intermediate
Total Time: ~30–36 hours
Prep Time: ~45 minutes (plus rolling and shaping)
Yield: 9 rolls (standard 8x8” or 9x9” pan)
Hydration: ~65%
Bake Temp: 375°F / 190°C
Baking Vessel: Square baking dish, lined with parchment
Ingredients
Dough
100g active sourdough starter
450g bread flour
50g sugar
8g fine sea salt
200g whole milk (cold or room temp)
1 large egg (about 50g)
60g unsalted butter, softened
Zest of 1 large orange
Filling
60g unsalted butter, softened
80g brown sugar
2 tsp ground cardamom
Zest of 1 orange
Optional: ½ tsp vanilla extract or splash of orange blossom water
Orange Glaze
100g powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
Optional: extra zest or cardamom for garnish
Instructions
Mix the Dough
1. In a stand mixer (or large bowl), combine the starter, flour, sugar, salt, milk, egg, and orange zest. Mix until a rough dough forms.
2. Let rest for 15–20 minutes.
3. Add softened butter in small pieces and knead until smooth, glossy, and elastic — about 10–15 minutes.
4. Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and bulk ferment for 4–6 hours at room temperature.
5. Once puffed, refrigerate overnight (12–24 hours) to enhance flavor and make shaping easier.
Prepare the Filling
6. Mix softened butter with brown sugar, cardamom, orange zest, and optional flavorings until smooth and spreadable.
Roll, Fill & Slice
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle (approx. 14x18”).
8. Spread filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border along one long edge.
9. Roll tightly from the opposite edge into a log.
10. Slice into 9 equal pieces and place cut-side up in a greased or parchment-lined pan.
11. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 5–7 hours, until puffy and nearly doubled.
Bake
12. Preheat oven to 375°F / 190°C.
13. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before glazing.
Make the Glaze & Finish
14. Stir together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and pourable.
15. Drizzle over warm buns and garnish with extra zest or a pinch of cardamom, if desired.
Visual Cues
Rolls should be puffed, golden, and softly domed with visible swirls.
Glaze should gently melt into the spirals and catch the orange zest on top.
Why This Works
The combination of tangy sourdough, floral cardamom, and citrus brings a delicate balance of richness and brightness. These buns feel indulgent yet refreshing — perfect for brunches, gifting, or a luxe weekday treat.
