Introduction
Homemade buns, especially with delightful flavors and aromas, can elevate any gathering or meal experience. This recipe showcases a wonderful combination of spices, fruits, and warming spices, creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Buns:
– 3 teaspoons instant or rapid rise yeast (9 grams)
– 1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar
– 1 1/2 cups (375ml) warm milk
– 4 1/4 cups (640g) bread 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
Extra Flour for Dough:
– 1/4 cup (35g) extra bread flour
Crosses:
– 1/2 cup (75g) flour
– 5 tablespoons water
Glaze:
– 1 tablespoon apricot jam
– 2 teaspoons water
Prep Time
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes (including rising time).
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes
Yield: 12 buns
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 4 1/4 cups (640g) of bread flour, 3 teaspoons of instant or rapid rise yeast (9 grams), 1/2 cup (110g) of caster sugar, 2 teaspoons of allspice or mixed spice, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add 50g (3.5 tablespoons) of melted and cooled unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups (375ml) of warm milk, 1 egg (at room temperature), 1 1/2 cups (210g) of sultanas, and the zest of 1–2 oranges to the dry mixture.
Knead Dough
Using either a stand mixer or by hand:
– *Using Stand Mixer:* Mix for 5 minutes on low speed, then increase to medium until a smooth, elastic dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add the extra 1/4 cup (35g) of bread flour until it comes away from the sides of the bowl and doesn’t stick to your fingers.
– *By Hand:* Dust a work surface with extra flour and knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape Buns
After the first rise, punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking tray, ensuring a small gap between each bun.
Second Rise
Cover the tray with a clean kitchen towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have increased in size.
Prepare Crosses
In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup (75g) of flour with 5 tablespoons of water to form a thick paste. Transfer this paste to a piping bag or a small ziplock bag with the corner snipped off for easy piping.
Pipe Crosses
Once the buns have risen, pipe a cross onto each bun using the flour paste.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the buns for 22 minutes, or until they are a deep golden brown.
Prepare Glaze
While the buns are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of apricot jam with 2 teaspoons of water in a small saucepan until melted and smooth.
Glaze Buns
Remove the buns from the oven and, while still warm, brush them with the apricot glaze.
Cool and Serve
Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure that the egg is at room temperature for better emulsification in the dough.
Measuring Flour
Be careful not to pack the flour when measuring. Use the spoon and level method for accuracy.
Warm Milk
The warm milk should be around 37-43°C (100-110°F) to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
Proper Rising Environment
For the best rising conditions, find a warm and draft-free spot in your kitchen, such as near a warm oven or in a sunny area.
Cooling Time
Let the buns cool for better texture before serving, allowing flavors to settle.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Combine flour, yeast, sugar, allspice, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl to create a base for the dough. Ensure even distribution of dry ingredients for proper fermentation and flavor.
Adding Wet Ingredients
Incorporate melted butter, warm milk, egg, sultanas, and orange zest into the dry mixture. This stage hydrates the flour and activates the yeast, which is crucial for dough development.
Kneading Dough
Knead the dough either by using a stand mixer or by hand. This process develops gluten, giving the dough elasticity and structure. Adjust with extra flour as needed to avoid stickiness.
First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm environment. This fermentation period allows the dough to double in size, enhancing flavor and texture.
Shaping Buns
After the first rise, punch down the dough, divide it into equal pieces, and shape each into a ball. Arrange the shaped buns on a baking tray, allowing space for expansion during the second rise.
Second Rise
Cover the tray of shaped buns with a towel and allow them to rise again. This step ensures the buns become fluffy and light when baked.
Preparing Crosses
Make a paste using flour and water to create the cross topping. This mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when piped onto the buns.
Pipe Crosses
Use a piping bag or a ziplock with the corner cut off to apply the cross paste on each bun, decorating them before baking.
Baking
Bake the buns in a preheated oven until they reach a deep golden brown color. Proper baking ensures a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
Preparing Glaze
Heat apricot jam with water until melted and smooth. This glaze will add shine and sweetness to the baked buns.
Glazing Buns
Brush the warm buns with the prepared apricot glaze for added flavor and an attractive finish.
Cooling and Serving
Allow the baked buns to cool slightly before serving. This step ensures they maintain structure and flavor while being warm and inviting.
FAQ
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast. However, activate it in warm milk with sugar before adding to the dry ingredients.
What can I substitute for sultanas?
You can use raisins or currants as a substitute for sultanas, or even try a mix of dried fruits for a different flavor profile.
How do I ensure the dough rises properly?
Make sure to place the dough in a warm, draft-free area. You can also create a warm environment by using the oven light or placing it near a heater.
How do I know when the buns are baked?
The buns are done when they have a deep golden brown color and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of about 90°C (194°F) indicates they are baked through.
Can I make the buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the buns ahead of time. After the first rise, you can refrigerate them overnight and continue with the second rise and baking the next day.
How should I store the baked buns?
Store the baked buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, freeze them and reheat as needed.
Conclusion
The delightful combination of spices, sultanas, and orange zest creates a truly aromatic experience with these buns. Their soft texture combined with a glossy apricot glaze makes them an appealing treat perfect for any occasion. Freshly baked, they are best enjoyed warm, bringing warmth and joy to the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Transform the dough into a loaf by adding more cinnamon and raisins for a classic breakfast treat.
Orange Cardamom Buns
Substitute the allspice with cardamom and enhance the orange zest for a fragrant twist.
Sultana and Almond Cookies
Use the sultanas and add ground almonds to create a crunchy, chewy cookie.
Cinnamon Roll Dough
Roll the dough flat, spread with cinnamon sugar filling, and roll up to make gooey cinnamon rolls.
Spiced Fruit Cake
Add nuts and more mixed fruit into the dough for a delicious spiced fruit cake perfect for celebrations.
Chocolate Chip Buns
Mix in chocolate chips instead of sultanas for a decadent treat that satisfies chocolate lovers.
Stuffed Buns
Fill the buns with your favorite jam or chocolate before baking for a surprise center.
