Introduction
Making delicious, homemade buns is a rewarding experience that can fill your home with an irresistible aroma. These buns, flavored with warm spices and studded with sultanas, are perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, they are sure to delight everyone.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Buns:
3 teaspoons instant or rapid rise yeast (9 grams)
1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar
1 1/2 cups (375ml) warm milk (full fat or low fat)
4 1/4 cups (640g) bread flour (or plain flour)
2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
2 teaspoons allspice or mixed spice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups (210g) sultanas
Zest of 1–2 oranges
50g (3.5 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 egg, at room temperature
For the Crosses:
1/2 cup (75g) flour (any white flour)
5 tablespoons water
For the Glaze:
1 tablespoon apricot jam
2 teaspoons water
Prep Time
Preparation time for these delicious buns is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
These buns require about 22 minutes of baking time. The total time, including rising and preparation, is around 2.5 hours. This recipe yields 12 delightful buns.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, allspice, cinnamon, and salt. Add melted butter, warm milk, egg, sultanas, and orange zest. Mix until a smooth, elastic dough forms. If using a stand mixer, mix for 5 minutes on speed 2. If kneading by hand, knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with cling wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Buns:
Punch down the dough to remove excess air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Place the balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
Second Rise:
Cover the tray with a clean towel and let the buns rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until they have increased in size.
Prepare the Crosses:
Mix the flour and water to form a thick paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag and pipe crosses over the buns.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the buns for 22 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Glaze:
While the buns are baking, heat the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan until melted. Once the buns are done, brush them with the warm glaze while they are still hot.
Serve:
Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Yeast Type:
Ensure to use instant or rapid rise yeast for best results.
Milk Temperature:
The milk should be warm but not hot; ideally around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
Room Temperature Egg:
Using an egg at room temperature helps the dough rise better.
Shaping Technique:
When shaping the buns, ensure they are formed tightly to help maintain their shape during the second rise.
Storage:
Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat before serving for a fresh taste.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Combine dry and wet ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth and elastic dough. Use a stand mixer or knead by hand until the dough is well-developed.
Rising Dough
Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment, covered, to promote fermentation, which helps the dough double in size. This step is crucial for texture and flavor.
Shaping Buns
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release air and divide it into equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball to ensure even cooking and rising.
Piping Crosses
Create a thick paste with flour and water, and use a piping bag to apply crosses on the buns. This technique adds a decorative touch and enhances the appearance of the baked product.
Baking
Preheat the oven to the specified temperature to ensure even cooking. Bake until golden brown, watching carefully to avoid overbaking.
Glazing Buns
Brush the buns with a warm glaze made of apricot jam and water immediately after baking for a shiny finish and added sweetness.
FAQ
Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute regular yeast, but you will need to activate it in warm water with some sugar before adding it to the dough.
How do I know if the dough has risen enough?
The dough should be doubled in size and feel soft and puffy to the touch. A gentle poke should leave a slight indentation that doesn’t spring back.
What is the purpose of adding orange zest?
Orange zest enhances the flavor profile by adding a citrusy aroma and brightness to the buns.
Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance, shape the buns, and then refrigerate them overnight before the second rise. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What can I use instead of sultanas?
You can substitute sultanas with raisins, currants, or even dried cranberries for a different taste and texture.
How should I store leftover buns?
Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
The preparation of these delightful buns offers a wonderful blend of warm spices, fruity sultanas, and refreshing citrus zest, resulting in a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. When glazed with apricot jam, these buns achieve a shiny finish that enhances their appeal. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or toasted with butter for a truly indulgent experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Swap sultanas for raisins to create a classic cinnamon raisin bread that’s perfect for breakfast or snacking.
Orange and Cranberry Buns
Replace sultanas with dried cranberries for a festive twist and add extra orange zest for a burst of flavor.
Chocolate Chip Brioche Buns
Incorporate chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet variation that chocolate lovers will adore.
Nuts and Honey Buns
Fold in chopped nuts and drizzle with honey instead of apricot jam for a different sweet and nutty taste.
Spiced Pumpkin Buns
Add pureed pumpkin and a blend of nutmeg and ginger for a seasonal version that’s perfect for autumn.
Maple Pecan Sticky Buns
Make a gooey filling with maple syrup, brown sugar, and pecans for indulgently sweet sticky buns.
Lemon Zest and Poppy Seed Buns
Add lemon zest and a sprinkle of poppy seeds for a refreshing flavor profile in your buns.
