Lemon Buns Recipe ๐
Introduction:
These Lemon Buns are a delightful twist on the classic hot yeast bun, infused with a zesty lemon flavor that adds a refreshing tang to every bite. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply craving something special for dinner, these tender and buttery buns, adorned with a crisp, golden crust, are sure to impress. This recipe, discovered on the King Arthur Flour website, promises to elevate your baking game with its unique blend of flavors.
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 3 hours
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 20 Buns
- Rating: 4.5 Stars (Based on 4 Reviews)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup water
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 1/3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for glaze)
- Zest of 3 lemons (for glaze)
Instructions:
Manual/Mixer Method:
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine water, milk, unsalted butter, egg, lemon zest, salt, sugar, flour, and instant yeast. Stir until a cohesive dough forms.
-
-
Knead Dough: Knead the dough by hand on a lightly oiled work surface or using a machine for 5 to 8 minutes, until it becomes smooth, soft, and supple. Avoid adding excessive flour, as it can result in tough and dry buns.
-
First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise for approximately 1 1/2 hours, or until it becomes puffy, though it may not have doubled in bulk.
Bread Machine Method:
-
Combine Ingredients: Place all dough ingredients into the pan of your bread machine. Program the machine for Manual or Dough setting and start the cycle.
-
Additional Rise: Once the machine completes its cycle, allow the dough to continue rising for 30 minutes. It may exceed the top of the bucket but should not overflow.
-
Divide and Shape: Transfer the risen dough to a lightly oiled work surface. Divide it into 20 equal pieces and allow them to rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
-
Form Buns: Shape each piece of dough into a ball and place them in two lightly greased 9-inch round cake pans.
-
Second Rise: Cover the pans and let the buns rise for about 1 hour, or until they are nicely puffed and have filled the pan.
Glazing and Baking:
-
Prepare Glaze: While the buns are rising, combine 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the zest of 3 lemons to prepare the glaze.
-
Glaze Buns: Brush the risen buns lightly with half of the prepared glaze.
-
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Bake the buns for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
-
Final Touch: Remove the buns from the oven and brush them with the remaining glaze for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
-
Cooling: Transfer the baked buns to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 147.4
- Fat: 4.9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.9g
- Cholesterol: 22.5mg
- Sodium: 241.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 21.9g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 0.7g
- Protein: 3.6g
Tips:
- For optimal results, ensure the yeast is fresh and active before using.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest in both the dough and the glaze; it adds a vibrant citrus flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter variation, you can add a bit more sugar to the dough or glaze according to your taste.
- These Lemon Buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
Conclusion:
With their irresistible lemony aroma and soft, buttery texture, these Lemon Buns are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether served alongside a hearty meal or enjoyed as a snack, they are sure to brighten up your day with their sunny flavor. Try this recipe today and indulge in the perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors!
