Make Fluffy Fruit Buns With This Easy Recipe

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 ½ 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