Swedish Kanelbullar vs American Cinnamon Rolls

Welcome back to July's UBC — we're on Day 9!

When in Sweden... You can't not have kanelbullar. They're literally everywhere! With over 200 bakeries in Stockholm alone, I’d be surprised if even a single one didn’t offer Sweden’s iconic cinnamon bun.

The Starbucks cinnamon roll has long been one of my absolute favorite treats, so I was excited to meet its Swedish counterpart and see how the two stack up.

At first glance, Swedish kanelbullar and American cinnamon rolls look quite similar: both are spiraled buns infused with cinnamon, but they differ in ingredients, texture, preparation, and even their cultural meaning.

But first... let’s talk about the smell of cinnamon.

Few scents are as universally cozy and happiness-inducing as warm cinnamon. Think of walking through a shopping mall and catching a whiff of Cinnabon from across the food court; it’s practically a siren call. For me, cinnamon equals comfort, indulgence, and instant good vibes. Whether it's baked into a roll, a cookie, or even sprinkled over applesauce, the scent alone is enough to lift my mood. So it's no wonder I was eager to dive into cinnamon buns... of any kind. 

Once back home, I immediately binge-watched tutorials, and this one by Cecilia Tolone became my favorite:
(Note: it's technically a cardamom bun recipe, but her cinnamon bun video is older — and her technique has only improved since.)

This is a wonderfully detailed and lengthy video that walks you through ingredients, techniques, and tips. But here’s my quick summary:

Photo by Gülsüm Çoban on Pexels

Ingredients and Dough Texture

Kanelbullar dough is usually less sweet and often includes ground cardamom, giving it a uniquely aromatic flavor. American cinnamon rolls, in contrast, tend to be richer and sweeter, sometimes made with eggs or even cream for that soft, pillowy texture. Kanelbullar lean toward a breadier consistency, while American rolls embrace the gooey, indulgent feel.

Filling and Shape

The cinnamon-sugar filling in Swedish buns is more restrained, and butter is used with a lighter hand. Kanelbullar are typically twisted or knotted into rustic, individual portions. American cinnamon rolls are rolled into a log, sliced into thick spirals, and baked together so they can be pulled apart.

Toppings and Finishing Touches

Swedish Kanelbullar are brushed with egg wash and sprinkled with crunchy pearl sugar, giving them a crisp top. American cinnamon rolls are all about the frosting — often a thick layer of icing or cream cheese spread generously over the top while still warm. One is about balance and tradition; the other is pure decadence.

Photo by Phil Hearing on Unsplash

Cultural Significance

In Sweden, Kanelbullar are a cornerstone of fika, the beloved coffee break ritual built around slowing down and socializing. These buns are a symbol of daily pleasure and connection. In the U.S., cinnamon rolls are more of a special-occasion treat, perfect for brunch, lazy weekends, or Christmas morning indulgence.

Fun Fact: Kanelbullens Dag (Cinnamon Bun Day) is celebrated every year on October 4 in both Sweden and the USA. A whole day dedicated to enjoying a warm, fragrant bun with your favorite cup of coffee? Count me in.

Photo by Anisa Cakesandbakes on Unsplash

They say scent is the strongest sense tied to memory. Is there a smell that instantly brings you back to a specific place, person, or moment in time? Maybe it’s cinnamon, like me. Or perhaps something entirely different, like fresh-cut grass, sunscreen, or your grandmother’s perfume.

I’d love to hear: What’s your favorite scent memory?

Also: Do you celebrate National Cinnamon Roll Day?