These sweet walnut buns are the perfect blend of soft, fluffy dough and crunchy, nutty walnut filling. Made with a simple yeast dough, the buns are filled with a mixture of chopped walnuts, sugar, and butter, making every bite irresistible. Topped with sesame seeds for an added crunch and extra flavor, these buns are a fantastic option for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The recipe uses ingredients that are commonly available, and the process is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re enjoying them warm from the oven or as part of a brunch spread, these sweet walnut buns will quickly become a household favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Bake time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 2 hours
- Servings: 12 buns
Ingredients
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
- 1 tablespoon (9g) dry yeast
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 550g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Butter (for greasing)
- 100g walnuts, coarsely chopped
- Sugar (for sprinkling)
- Sesame seeds (for topping)
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs.
- Stir the ingredients together until they form a dough. Then, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling: 5. While the dough is rising, prepare the walnut filling. In a small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts with sugar to your desired sweetness.
Shape the Buns: 6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick). 7. Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the dough, then evenly sprinkle the walnut and sugar mixture over the entire surface. 8. Carefully roll the dough into a log, then slice it into 12 even pieces. Arrange the buns in a buttered baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Let the Buns Rise: 9. Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Bake the Buns: 10. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). 11. Brush the tops of the buns with a bit of melted butter, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crunchy finish. 12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy: 13. Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven.
Nutritional Facts (Per Bun)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
The Origins and Popularity of Sweet Buns
Sweet buns are a staple in many cultures around the world, with each region putting its own spin on the recipe. The origins of sweet buns date back to ancient times when people would bake dough using simple ingredients like flour, water, and yeast. Over time, various sweeteners, spices, and fillings were added to these buns, turning them into a beloved treat in many countries.
In Europe, particularly in Scandinavian and German cultures, sweet buns became a staple of festive occasions. Swedish cinnamon buns, known as “kanelbullar,” and German “süße Brötchen” (sweet rolls) are just a couple of examples of how sweet dough and rich fillings like sugar, butter, and nuts became central to the cuisine. These types of buns are often enjoyed as part of morning meals, alongside coffee or tea, or as a dessert.
In North America, sweet buns such as sticky buns and cinnamon rolls are incredibly popular, particularly in bakeries and as part of holiday brunches. With the addition of various nuts, like walnuts, pecans, and almonds, sweet buns have evolved to include richer fillings and toppings, making them even more irresistible. The recipe for these walnut-filled sweet buns is a modern variation that combines the rich tradition of sweet baking with the warm, comforting flavors of nuts and butter. The combination of walnuts, sugar, and sesame seeds brings a new layer of flavor and texture to this classic treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These sweet walnut buns are the perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough and a satisfying, crunchy walnut filling. The slightly sweet and nutty flavor of the walnuts pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery dough. The sesame seeds add an extra crunch, making each bite delightful. The sweetness can be adjusted to suit your preferences, making them a versatile treat for all tastes. Additionally, the recipe is simple and straightforward, allowing even beginner bakers to create a delicious homemade dessert that’s sure to impress. These buns are perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert after dinner.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
These sweet walnut buns provide a good source of healthy fats, especially from the walnuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Walnuts are known to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function. The dough is made with simple, wholesome ingredients like flour, eggs, and butter, which provide a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making these buns filling and satisfying. While they are certainly a treat, the walnuts offer some nutritional value, making these buns a slightly healthier option compared to other pastries that may lack fiber or healthy fats.
The addition of eggs provides a source of protein and essential nutrients, including vitamin B12 and riboflavin, which are important for metabolism and energy production. The sesame seeds used in the topping are high in calcium, which helps support bone health, and they also provide a mild nutty flavor that complements the walnuts. While the buns do contain sugar, they can be adjusted to your taste preferences, making them a more balanced treat when compared to highly processed pastries or store-bought sweets.
Serving Suggestions of This Recipe
- For Breakfast: Serve the sweet walnut buns with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying and indulgent breakfast.
- As a Dessert: These buns make a delightful dessert after dinner, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- With Fresh Fruit: Pair the buns with fresh berries or sliced apples for a fresh contrast to the richness of the buns.
- With Yogurt: Serve these buns with a dollop of yogurt for a balanced breakfast or snack.
Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, ensure that your milk, butter, and eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the dough mixture. This helps the dough come together more easily.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: When mixing the dough, be careful not to overwork it. Overmixing can lead to dense buns, so gently knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Customize the Filling: You can adjust the amount of sugar and walnuts based on your preference. You can also add other ingredients like raisins, chocolate chips, or cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
- Brush with Butter After Baking: For extra flavor and a shiny finish, brush the baked buns with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
Variations to Try
- Cinnamon Rolls: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the sugar and walnut mixture to create a warm, spiced version of the buns.
- Fruit-Filled Buns: Replace the walnuts with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity alternative.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and almond milk to create a vegan version of these buns while still maintaining their rich, buttery flavor.
- Maple Walnut Buns: Swap the sugar for maple syrup to create a naturally sweetened filling that pairs beautifully with the walnuts.
Conclusion
These sweet walnut buns are the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, they are sure to delight. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll be able to enjoy the fresh, warm aroma of these buns in no time. The walnut filling, rich dough, and sesame seed topping make these buns unique and satisfying. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones, and with a little creativity, you can customize them to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a new favorite baked good that everyone will adore.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make these buns in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Then, shape the buns and let them rise again before baking. -
Can I freeze the buns?
Yes, you can freeze the buns after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven for 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F). -
Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, you can use pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of walnuts if you prefer. -
Can I make these buns without yeast?
While yeast gives the buns their fluffy texture, you could use baking powder as a substitute, though the texture will be different. -
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour, but the texture may vary. -
How can I make these buns sweeter?
If you like sweeter buns, you can increase the amount of sugar in the filling or glaze them with a sugar syrup after baking. -
Can I make these buns dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk like almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version. -
How long do these buns last?
The buns will stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature, or you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. -
Can I add frosting on top?
For extra sweetness, you can top the buns with cream cheese frosting or a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. -
Can I shape the buns differently?
Yes, you can shape the buns into rolls or twists if you prefer a different look or presentation.