Swedish Sainta Lucia Holiday Recipe

Written by GRP U23 resident athlete Lina Sutro

December 13th is Sainta Lucia Day, which is a traditional holiday celebrated most widely in Scandinavia and Italy. Sainta Lucia Day commemorates Lucia of Syracus, an early-4th-centruy virgin martyr, who brought food and aid to Christians hiding in the Roman catacombs. St. Lucia would wear a candle lit wreath on her head to light her way to leave her hands free to carry as much food as possible. In Sweden people gather on December 13th to celebrate Lucia. Most will carry candles, sing carols and bring light to the dark winter times.

Saffron Rolls (lussebullar) are a classic Lucia pastry, with a soft, gooey texture and a pungent taste of saffron. These rolls will leave you feeling ready to celebrate the holiday spirit! Enjoy this recipe and happy baking!