Introduction
Baking fresh, fluffy buns at home can be a delightful experience. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a picnic, or just want to enjoy some homemade bread, this recipe will guide you step by step. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create delicious buns that are perfect for sliders, sandwiches, or just enjoying with a pat of butter.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Buns:
– 1 tablespoon dry yeast
– 1/4 cup caster (superfine) sugar, or regular white sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1 cup lukewarm milk (whole or low fat)
– 50 grams (3 1/2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 2 eggs, at room temperature, beaten
For Brushing:
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
Prep Time
The preparation time for this bun recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes the initial steps of activating the yeast and mixing the ingredients together.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for baking the buns is about 15 to 18 minutes. Including the rising times, the total time is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. This recipe yields 12 delicious buns, perfect for any occasion or meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Activate the Yeast
In a medium bowl, combine the yeast and 2 teaspoons of the sugar. Pour in the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, and the yeast mixture (including all the froth). Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture is combined into a thick, sticky batter.
First Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel and place it in a warm area (around 25°C/77°F) to rise for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the dough has nearly tripled in volume. The surface should appear bubbly.
Shape the Rolls
Line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. Punch down the risen dough to deflate it, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a log and divide it into 12 equal pieces. For each piece, press it down slightly, gather the edges into the center to form a ball, flip it over so the smooth side is up, and place it on the prepared tray.
Second Rise
Lightly spray the tops of the rolls with oil and cover the tray with cling wrap. Let the rolls rise in a warm place for 30 to 45 minutes, until they have increased in size by about 75%.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 200°C/390°F (standard) or 180°C/350°F (fan/convection). Bake the rolls for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the center roll sounds hollow when tapped.
Finish
Remove the rolls from the oven and brush them with the melted butter. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the rolls onto a cooling rack. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Yeast Activation
Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
Dough Consistency
The dough should be thick and sticky. If it’s too wet, you can add a little more flour as needed when shaping the rolls.
Rising Environment
A warm draft-free area is ideal for the dough to rise. You can preheat your oven to the lowest setting, turn it off, and place the dough inside to rise.
Cooling
Let the rolls cool for a few minutes on the rack to enhance their texture before serving.
Cook Techniques
Activating Yeast
To activate the dry yeast, mix it with sugar and warm water, allowing it to sit until frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is alive and ready to help the dough rise.
Mixing Dough
Combine the bread flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the wet ingredients, then mix until the dough forms a thick, sticky consistency.
First Rise
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area. This process allows the dough to develop flavor and structure as it expands.
Shaping Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide it into equal pieces, shaping each into a smooth ball to create uniform rolls.
Second Rise
After shaping, let the rolls rise again. This second rise enhances the texture and lightness of the buns before baking.
Baking
Preheat the oven and bake the rolls until golden brown. Tapping the center roll should produce a hollow sound, indicating they are cooked through.
Final Touch
Brush the baked rolls with melted butter to add flavor and a nice sheen. Allow them to cool slightly before serving for optimal texture.
FAQ
How long should I let the yeast activate?
Allow the yeast to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the environment is warm enough for rising. If it’s too cold, the dough may not rise effectively.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour can be used, but the texture may differ slightly as bread flour provides more gluten for a chewier bun.
What is the best way to know if the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
How can I store leftover buns?
Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
The homemade buns are fluffy, soft, and perfect for any meal. Their rich flavor and delightful texture make them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether served warm with butter or used as the foundation for various fillings, these buns are sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Butter Buns
Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the melted butter before brushing it on the baked buns for a savory twist.
Cinnamon Sugar Buns
Mix cinnamon with the caster sugar and sprinkle it over the rolls before the second rise for a sweet, aromatic flavor.
Stuffed Buns
Create a filling of your choice, such as cheese, ham, or vegetables, and encase it within the dough before baking for delicious stuffed buns.
Sweet Brioche Buns
Incorporate vanilla extract and a bit more sugar into the dough for a sweet brioche-style bun, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Herbed Buns
Incorporate dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil into the dough for a flavorful addition that pairs well with soups or salads.
