A Treat for the Longest Night: The Story of Sweden’s St. Lucia Buns

Around December 13, bakers across Sweden reach for saffron. It’s the season of the lussekatt—a pastry shaped by centuries of winter ritual and storytelling. This glowing emblem of Saint Lucy’s Day (or Santa Lucia Day) takes its color and floral aroma from the world’s most precious spice, brightening the Nordic table during the year’s darkest days.