Sure, let’s delve into the delightful world of Cinnamon Buns, famously known as PA Dutch Sticky Buns, a beloved treat with roots in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, blending European flavors with American charm, perfect for a cozy family gathering, a festive Christmas morning, or a delightful Hanukkah celebration. These sticky buns are a true testament to comfort food, combining warm spices, plump raisins, zesty citron, and a caramelized brown sugar glaze that’s simply irresistible.
🕒 Cook Time: 20 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 2 hours
🕒 Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons currants
- 2 tablespoons citron
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup additional brown sugar for topping
Instructions:
-
Activate the Yeast:
Soften the yeast in warm water, allowing it to stand for 5-10 minutes until frothy, a sign of its activation. -
Prepare the Dough:
In a separate bowl, combine warm milk with sugar and salt, ensuring thorough mixing, then heat the mixture until it reaches lukewarm temperature. Add 1 cup of flour and mix until smooth. -
Incorporate Ingredients:
Stir in the activated yeast mixture, then gradually add the remaining flour, ensuring each addition is well mixed. The dough should come together smoothly. -
Knead and Rise:
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, ensuring the top is also greased. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 45 minutes. -
Prepare the Filling:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the surface with softened butter, then evenly spread raisins, currants, citron, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. -
Shape the Buns:
Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side, similar to rolling a jelly roll. Once rolled, cut the dough into 1-inch slices. -
Arrange in Pan:
Butter a 13x9x2-inch baking pan and arrange the sliced buns, placing them cut side down. Ensure they are evenly spaced to allow room for rising. -
Second Rise:
Cover the pan and let the buns rise again until they double in size. This step allows the buns to become light and fluffy. -
Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the top of the buns with the remaining brown sugar, adding an extra layer of sweetness. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the buns for 20 to 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. -
Enjoy Warm:
Once baked to perfection, allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. These sticky buns are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, with a cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk.
Indulge in the heavenly aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Buns, each bite bursting with warm spices and gooey sweetness, a true testament to the joy of homemade baking and the warmth of shared moments with loved ones. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weekday treat, these sticky buns are sure to delight taste buds and create cherished memories for years to come.
