If you’re looking to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful homemade pastry that’s perfect for any time of day, Chelsea Buns are an excellent choice. These sweet, spiced buns are a classic favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or with a cup of tea in the afternoon, Chelsea Buns are sure to bring warmth and comfort to your home. They are a lovely addition to any gathering or simply for a cozy day indoors.
Chelsea Buns
Ingredients:
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup raisins or currants
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, granulated sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warm milk and stir until well combined. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the yeast to activate and the mixture to become frothy.
2. Add the eggs and melted butter to the bowl and mix until smooth. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the surface of the dough with melted butter.
5. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins or currants, and lemon zest. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough.
6. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each bun. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Chelsea Buns for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
8. Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly. Dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy these delicious Chelsea Buns warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
These Chelsea Buns are a delightful treat that will fill your home with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked pastries. Whether you enjoy them on a leisurely weekend morning or as a special treat for guests, these buns are sure to be a hit. Share the love and joy of homemade baking with these scrumptious Chelsea Buns!