Crunchy Fruit-Filled Bath Buns

Overview

Bath Buns, originating from Helen’s British Cooking Site, are delightful treats known for their sweet, fruity flavor and soft texture. These buns are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a sweet brunch treat. They feature a crunchy sugar topping and a deep brown color from the egg glaze, making them visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 150g plain flour
• 1 tsp dried yeast
• 2 tbsp warm milk
• 150ml water
• 150g plain flour (for dough)
• 300g butter
• 50g sugar
• 2 eggs
• 75g sultanas
• 175g mixed peel
• 50g sugar lumps (for topping)
• 1 egg (for egg glaze)
• 1 tbsp water (for egg glaze)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter:

   • In a large bowl, combine 150g plain flour, dried yeast, warm milk, and water.
   • Beat the ingredients together with a wooden spoon or on low speed using a mixer until well combined.

2. Activate the Yeast:

   • Leave the batter in a warm place for about 20 minutes, until it becomes frothy. Skip this step if using Fast Action or quick yeast.

3. Prepare the Dough:

   • In another bowl, rub 150g plain flour and butter together until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
   • Add the flour-butter mixture, eggs, sugar, sultanas, and mixed peel to the frothy batter.
   • Beat the mixture well for about 10 minutes, preferably using a standing mixer, until smooth and elastic.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean damp tea towel and leave it to rise in a warm place for 1 1/2 hours, or until the dough doubles in size.

4. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F, Gas Mark 7).
   • Lightly butter or grease 2 baking sheets.

5. Shape and Proof the Buns:

   • Beat the risen dough well for a few minutes.
   • Place large tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 6 buns per sheet.
   • Cover the buns with oiled plastic wrap and leave them in a warm place for 30 minutes, until they double in size again.

6. Prepare the Egg Glaze:

   • In a small bowl, beat together 1 egg and 1 tbsp water until well combined.

7. Final Touches and Baking:

   • Uncover the risen buns.
   • Brush each bun generously with the egg glaze.
   • Sprinkle the tops with crushed sugar lumps for a crunchy texture.

8. Bake the Buns:

   • Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven.
   • Bake the buns for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

9. Cool and Serve:

   • Remove the bath buns from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Variation:

    • Optionally, you can replace the sultanas and mixed peel with 225g of mixed dried fruit, ensuring it includes some mixed peel for added flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 288.5
• Fat: 5.6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.9g
• Cholesterol: 63.5mg
• Sodium: 50.6mg
• Carbohydrates: 52.4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 13g
• Protein: 7.6g

Serving Tips

These Bath Buns are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or slightly warm. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for a cozy breakfast or a delightful dessert. The crunchy sugar topping adds a lovely contrast to the soft, fruity interior, creating a truly irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Give these Bath Buns a try for your next baking adventure, and savor the rich flavors and comforting aromas that define this classic British delicacy!