Delightful Coffee Buns A Step-By-Step Guide

Coffee buns are a delicious blend of soft bread and a rich coffee flavor, making them an ideal companion for afternoon tea or your morning coffee. Originating from various cultures, these treats have captured the hearts of many due to their fluffy texture and irresistible aroma. In this guide, we will take you through creating your own coffee buns at home with a simple yet satisfying recipe.

Golden, aromatic coffee buns, freshly baked and ready to captivate.

Ingredients

Buns (Yields about 10 buns)

• 320g [2 ½ cups] bread flour

• 5g [1 ½ tsp] instant dry yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• 30g [2 tbsp] sugar

• 220ml [¾ cup + 3 tbsp] milk, lukewarm

• 30g [2 tbsp] butter, softened

  
  

Coffee Topping

• 1 egg

• 4g [1 tbsp] coffee powder

• 15ml [1 tbsp] water

• 65g [¼ cup + ½ tbsp] butter, softened

• 75g [¼ cup + 2 tbsp] fine sugar

• 75g [½ cup + 2 tbsp] plain flour

  
  

Preparing the Bun Dough

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: bread flour, instant dry yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix them well to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and gradually add the lukewarm milk. It's critical that the milk is warm enough to activate the yeast, as temperatures below 35°C (95°F) may hinder the fermentation process. Stir until a dough begins to form.

Transfer the dough to a clean surface. Spread the softened butter over the top. The dough may feel wet and sticky, which is normal. Resist the urge to add more flour; the moisture from the butter is essential for a soft and fluffy texture.

Knead the dough for about 20 minutes. You want a smooth, elastic texture. To check if it is ready, pull a small piece of dough. If it stretches without tearing (this is called the windowpane test), you are good to go.

Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with cling film and let it rise for 45 to 60 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Shaping the Buns

When the dough has risen, it’s time to shape the buns. Cut out about 20 small cubes of butter and set them aside. Divide the risen dough into ten equal pieces. Cover them with a tea towel and let them rest for 15 minutes.

After resting, gently press out any air from each piece of dough. Shape them into balls and wrap one or two butter cubes inside each ball, ensuring they are sealed tightly. Place the formed balls back into the greased bowl and cover them again to let them prove for another 30 minutes.

Making the Coffee Topping

While the buns are proving, prepare the coffee topping. Start by beating the egg in a bowl. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and fine sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale.

Gradually add the beaten egg to the creamed mixture, one spoonful at a time, mixing until well combined. Add the coffee powder and water; it’s common for the mixture to appear slightly curdled at this stage. Don't worry; it will come together.

Sift the plain flour into the mixture and fold until smooth. Your coffee topping batter should be thick but spreadable.

Baking Your Coffee Buns

When the buns have completed their second proving, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Using a piping bag or a spoon, apply the coffee topping over each bun carefully. Ensure they are well covered without excessive movement that could deflate the dough.

Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Your kitchen will fill with a delightful aroma as they bake!

Cooling and Enjoying

Once the buns are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Allowing them to cool properly is essential as it prevents sogginess and sets the texture.

Once they have cooled slightly, it's time to enjoy! Serve your coffee buns warm, either plain or with a spread of butter. Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea for the perfect treat.

Final Thoughts

Baking coffee buns is a rewarding experience that lets you appreciate the lovely flavors and textures that come with time and care. The combination of the fluffy bun with the flavorful coffee topping makes these buns a standout addition to any table.

Whether you enjoy them for breakfast or share with friends during tea time, coffee buns are sure to brighten your day. Gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and treat yourself and your loved ones to the joy of homemade coffee buns!