Lussekatter (Santa Lucia buns)

1 c. melted butter.

2 c. lukewarm milk

3/4 c. sugar

1 egg

1 T. yeast

1 t. saffron ground to a powder with 1 T. sugar

5 c. flour

raisins or dried blueberries for decorations

Mix all ingredients with electric mixer. Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375 F.

Knead. No, really, knead. After that: keep kneading. You want it to become smooth and pliable. This will take awhile. Set aside plenty of time.

Roll 25-35 pieces into logs and twirl into s-shapes, knots, or other interesting shapes. Place on greased baking sheets. Dot with raisins or dried blueberries (raisins are traditional, but I like the blueberries better). Let rise 20 minutes, then bake 15 minutes, until golden brown.