Make Fluffy Fruit Buns With This Easy Recipe

Fruit buns are fluffy and sweet, made with a yeast dough enriched with dried fruits and nuts. The dough is kneaded, proofed, shaped, and baked until golden. A milk wash and honey glaze add flavor and shine. Perfect with tea or as a snack.

Harpreet Kour Updated: Nov 30, 2024 7:00 AM IST

Fruit buns are delicious, soft, and packed with the goodness of dried fruits and nuts. The process involves kneading a dough enriched with butter, yeast, and vanilla extract. Once proofed, the dough is shaped into buns, left to rise again, and then baked to golden perfection. A milk wash ensures a rich crust, while honey or sugar syrup adds shine. These buns are versatile, pairing well with tea or coffee. Warm and fresh, they're a treat to savor any time.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
  • 1/4 cup lukewarm water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped candied cherries)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, like almonds or cashews)
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder (optional)

For Brushing:

  • 2 tbsp milk (for brushing before baking)
  • 1 tbsp honey or sugar syrup (for brushing after baking)

Step By Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, mix the lukewarm water, lukewarm milk, and 1 tsp of sugar. Add the yeast and stir gently.
  • Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
  • Add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
  • Mix until it forms a sticky dough. Use your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  • Knead the dough on a floured surface or in the mixer for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • Gradually knead in the dried fruits, nuts, and cinnamon (if using). Ensure they are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Proof the Dough

  • Grease a bowl with oil or butter and place the dough inside. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
  • Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

  • Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into equal portions (6-8 pieces depending on the size you want).
  • Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space for expansion.

Step 6: Second Proofing

  • Cover the shaped buns with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake the Buns

  • Preheat your oven to 180 C (350 F).
  • Brush the tops of the buns with milk for a golden crust.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the buns are golden brown on top.

Step 8: Final Touches

  • Remove the buns from the oven and immediately brush them with honey or sugar syrup for a shiny glaze.
  • Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the fruit buns warm with a pat of butter or jam.
  • Pair with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk for a wholesome snack.

Enjoy your homemade fruit buns soft, flavorful, and packed with fruity goodness