Homemade buns are a treasure trove of comfort and nostalgia. These Apricot Jam-Filled Buns are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a testament to the joys of baking from scratch. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into golden, fluffy delights bursting with the sweet, tangy flavor of apricot jam.
Perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even dessert, these buns are versatile and delightful. The yeast dough, enriched with milk and eggs, creates a tender crumb, while the jam filling offers a luscious surprise in every bite. Baking them at home fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, promising the warmth of a bakery-style treat made with love. Let’s dive into how you can create these timeless buns step by step.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 500-550 g wheat flour (4.5 cups)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
- 13 g fresh yeast (1/2 oz) or 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 125 ml warm water (1/2 cup)
- 125 ml warm milk (1/2 cup)
- 30 ml vegetable oil (3 tablespoons)
- 5-6 g salt (1/2 teaspoon)
For the Filling:
- Apricot jam (or any jam of your choice)
For Brushing:
- 1 egg mixed with 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, activated yeast mixture, warm milk, and vegetable oil.
- Gradually mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until a dough starts to form.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm place for 50-60 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles.
- Divide the dough into equal portions (around 12-15 pieces, depending on your desired size).
- Roll each portion into a ball, flatten it slightly, and place a teaspoon of apricot jam in the center.
- Carefully gather the edges of the dough to seal the jam inside, shaping it back into a smooth ball. Place the buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, seam side down.
Step 4: Proof and Prepare for Baking
- Cover the shaped buns with a kitchen towel and let them rest for another 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Brush the tops of the buns with the egg and milk mixture for a shiny, golden finish.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden and fragrant.
- Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 60 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Bun)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
Servings
This recipe makes 12-15 buns, depending on size.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Baking these Apricot Jam-Filled Buns is an experience that transcends generations. The soft, slightly sweet dough harks back to recipes cherished in family kitchens for decades. The filling, which can be personalized to suit your taste, adds a touch of modern creativity. Whether served during a cozy morning or as an accompaniment to afternoon tea, these buns never go out of style.
Their versatility and ease of preparation ensure that they remain a staple in households worldwide. From novice bakers to seasoned experts, everyone can appreciate the charm of these buns, and their universal appeal ensures they will always have a place at the table.
FAQs
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
- Yes! Use 1 ½ teaspoons of active dry yeast as a substitute for 13 g of fresh yeast.
2. What other fillings can I use?
- These buns are highly versatile. Try chocolate spread, custard, fruit preserves, or even savory fillings like cheese and herbs.
3. Can I freeze the buns?
- Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, freeze the buns in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature and warm them in the oven before serving.
4. How do I ensure the jam doesn’t leak out?
- Use a thick jam, and make sure to seal the dough edges tightly. Pinching the seams well prevents leaks.
Tips for Success
- Measure Ingredients Carefully: Baking is a precise science, so weigh your flour and other ingredients for consistent results.
- Don’t Skip the Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures light and fluffy buns.
- Brush Generously: The egg-milk wash gives the buns their signature golden sheen. Don’t skip this step!
- Test the Jam Consistency: A thick jam works best for the filling. If your jam is runny, cook it down slightly to thicken.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover buns in an airtight container to retain freshness. Reheat slightly before serving.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Extend their shelf life by refrigerating them for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 5-7 minutes.
Conclusion
These Apricot Jam-Filled Buns are a love letter to the joys of home baking. They’re the perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention, can create something truly special. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven with a cup of tea or as a snack during the day, these buns are a source of comfort and delight.
Baking them isn’t just about making food—it’s about crafting memories. The aroma of freshly baked buns, the satisfaction of kneading dough, and the pleasure of biting into a soft, jam-filled treat make this recipe timeless. Take the time to bake these buns, share them with loved ones, and savor the moments that make life sweet.