Nothing says comfort and warmth like the aroma of freshly baked buns wafting through your kitchen. If you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness and a hint of indulgence to your baking repertoire, these Apple Rum Buns are the perfect treat to try. Made with a delicious combination of apples, warm spices, and a splash of rum, these buns are sure to become a favorite for cozy mornings or afternoon tea gatherings.
**Apple Rum Buns**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm milk
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 eggs
– 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and eggs to the dry ingredients.
3. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. While the dough is rising, prepare the apple filling. In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and rum. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender and the mixture is thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
7. Starting from one long side, roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
8. Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Remove from the oven and let the buns cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy these Apple Rum Buns warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and a touch of rum creates a flavor profile that will surely impress your family and guests. These buns are ideal for special occasions or simply when you want to indulge in a bit of homemade goodness. So, roll up your sleeves, get baking, and savor the deliciousness of these Apple Rum Buns!
