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1861-1900 - Scandinavian-American Immigrant Families in the Midwest
Julekake is a traditional Norwegian Christmas bread flavored with cardamom, studded with raisins, candied citrus peel, and sometimes almonds. Brought to the American Midwest by Scandinavian immigrants between 1861 and 1900, it remains a festive bread symbolizing heritage and holiday celebration.
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Difficulty
Medium
Prep time
30 minutes
Cook time
35 minutes
Total time
1 hour 15 minutes plus rising time
Servings
12
Region
Midwest
Era introduced
1861-1900
Introduced by
Scandinavian-American Immigrant Families in the Midwest
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Julekake traveled to the American Midwest with Norwegian immigrants during the late 19th century, during a period of Civil War and railroad expansion. This sweet bread, seasoned with fragrant cardamom and filled with dried fruits, became a holiday staple in Scandinavian-American communities, preserving cultural identity through festive baking traditions.
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