Russian Christmas is a time filled with rich traditions and delicious foods that bring families together in cozy kitchens across the country. One such traditional favorite is the Farforovye Pirozhki, also known as Porcelain Buns. These sweet, pillowy buns are a delightful treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy evening by the fireplace. Made with a fluffy dough and a sweet filling, Farforovye Pirozhki are sure to become a new family favorite.
**Farforovye Pirozhki Porcelain Buns**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, warm milk, sugar, softened butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
8. Flatten each dough ball with your hand, creating a well in the center. Fill the well with a small spoonful of apricot jam.
9. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the jam inside, forming a bun shape.
10. Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
11. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
12. Remove the Farforovye Pirozhki from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
13. Dust the warm buns with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of sweetness.
These Farforovye Pirozhki Porcelain Buns are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, when they are soft and warm. They make a delightful addition to any holiday table or a lovely gift for friends and family. The sweet apricot filling pairs perfectly with the fluffy dough, creating a treat that is both comforting and delicious. So, this Christmas season, why not add a touch of Russian tradition to your baking repertoire with these delightful buns?
