Grana Padano Buns: A Savory Delight for Any Occasion
The Grana Padano Buns are a flavorful, golden delight that combines the delicious taste of freshly baked bread with the rich, nutty flavor of Grana Padano cheese. Whether served alongside a meal or enjoyed on their own, these buns will quickly become a favorite in your household. With a soft, airy interior and a slightly crisp crust, they are perfect for any gathering, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to win over everyone’s taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 00 Flour | 350g |
| Manitoba Flour | 150g |
| Grana Padano DOP (cheese) | 100g |
| Water | 300g |
| Sugar | 60g |
| Butter | 40g |
| Fresh Yeast | 7g |
| Fine Salt | 7g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As needed |
| Egg Yolk | 1 |
| Whole Milk | 15g |
| Additional Grana Padano DOP | As needed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan. Once it has melted, set it aside to cool slightly. In the meantime, place both the 00 flour and the Manitoba flour into a large mixing bowl. Crumble the fresh yeast over the flour mixture, then start stirring with a spoon to combine the ingredients. -
-
Mix and Knead:
As the ingredients start to come together, begin kneading the dough by hand. Continue kneading until the dough becomes smooth and homogeneous. Next, add the cooled, melted butter to the dough and knead it in thoroughly. Finally, sprinkle in the salt and continue to knead until the dough is elastic and smooth. -
First Rise:
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise at room temperature for about 2 hours. After this time, the dough should have doubled in size, indicating that the yeast has worked its magic. -
Shape the Buns:
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a work surface. Divide the dough into 18 equal pieces, each weighing approximately 55g. Using your hands, shape each piece into a smooth ball by rolling it between your palms. Arrange the formed dough balls on two baking trays lined with parchment paper, positioning them in rows of three to ensure that they are not touching each other. -
Second Rise:
Let the dough balls rest for an additional 30 minutes at room temperature. This second rise allows the buns to puff up and become soft and airy. -
Prepare for Baking:
While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). In a small bowl, combine the milk and egg yolk, and whisk until smooth. Once the dough balls have rested, brush each one with the milk and egg yolk mixture to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked. -
Bake the Buns:
Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and cooked through. The time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. -
Serve:
Once the Grana Padano Buns have cooled to a comfortable temperature, they’re ready to serve. The buns are perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, or even served as a standalone snack. Enjoy the nutty flavor of the Grana Padano cheese combined with the soft, fluffy texture of the bread.
Nutritional Information (per bun)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 kcal |
| Protein | ~5g |
| Fat | ~7g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Sugar | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~150mg |
These Grana Padano Buns are the perfect way to bring a touch of Italy into your kitchen. Their delicate crumb, rich flavor, and cheesy twist are bound to impress at any dinner table or gathering. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile, great on their own or paired with savory spreads or soups. You won’t want to miss out on these heavenly treats—try making them today!
