There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked sweet buns. The warm, yeasty aroma that fills the kitchen, the soft, fluffy texture of the dough, and the burst of fruity sweetness make them an irresistible treat. These Pear-Filled Sweet Buns are a delightful twist on a classic, featuring a rich, buttery dough and a luscious pear filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, they strike a perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity.
The addition of pears brings a unique flavor profile, with their natural sweetness and slight juiciness complementing the soft buns beautifully. Pears, often underappreciated in baking, add a sophisticated touch that elevates these buns from ordinary to extraordinary. This recipe is designed to be approachable for novice bakers while offering a rewarding experience for seasoned ones.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Sweet buns have been cherished for generations, transcending cultures and cuisines. From cinnamon rolls to fruit-filled pastries, their versatility makes them a staple in many households. This recipe is timeless because it combines the universal appeal of sweet, fluffy bread with the natural sweetness of pears. It’s a nod to tradition, with a modern twist that highlights seasonal fruit. Whether you’re serving them to family, friends, or enjoying them solo with a cup of tea, these buns are a testament to the enduring charm of home-baked goods.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 140 g of milk (warm)
- 70 g of sugar
- 7 g of yeast (active dry or instant)
- 50 g of melted unsalted butter
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 310 g of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of salt
For the Filling:
- 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 8–10 buns, depending on the size.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (about 37°C or 98°F) with the sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg white, and vanilla extract. Once combined, add the frothy yeast mixture.
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for 5–6 minutes.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Prepare the Pear Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the pear filling. Peel, core, and dice the pears into small pieces. Set them aside. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the pears will create a delicious filling without the need for additional sugar.
5. Shape the Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air. Divide it into 8–10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it slightly with your hands. Place a spoonful of diced pears in the center of each piece of dough. Carefully gather the edges and pinch them together to seal the filling inside.
Place the filled buns, seam side down, on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Second Rise
Cover the buns with a clean cloth and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes, or until they puff up slightly.
7. Bake the Buns
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve
Allow the buns to cool slightly before dusting them generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts (Per Bun)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
Tips for Making the Perfect Sweet Buns
- Choose the Right Pears: Opt for ripe but firm pears like Bartlett or Anjou. Overripe pears may release too much moisture during baking.
- Don’t Skip the Second Rise: This step is crucial for achieving a light, fluffy texture.
- Even Filling: To ensure an even distribution of filling, dice the pears finely and measure them out consistently for each bun.
- Use Warm Ingredients: Ingredients like milk and butter should be warm (not hot) to help the yeast activate and rise properly.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: These buns can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the buns in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits for the filling?
Absolutely! This dough is versatile, and you can substitute pears with apples, peaches, or berries for different flavor combinations.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar in a high-speed blender until fine, or simply skip it for a less sweet version.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the second rise.
Conclusion
These Pear-Filled Sweet Buns are a delightful testament to the magic of baking. From the moment you begin mixing the dough to the final dusting of powdered sugar, this recipe offers a journey through comforting aromas and satisfying textures. The buttery dough, paired with the naturally sweet pear filling, creates a harmony of flavors that is both simple and indulgent.
Their timeless appeal lies in their versatility and ability to bring joy to any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a special breakfast treat, a dessert, or a snack to accompany your afternoon tea, these buns are sure to impress. Baking them at home adds a personal touch that elevates the experience, making each bite feel like a small celebration.
So, why not gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into the rewarding process of creating these delectable buns? You’ll not only end up with a delicious treat but also with the satisfaction of having baked something truly special from scratch. Enjoy!