Cardamom Buns: A Culinary Delight
Ingredients:
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 7g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 5g (1 tsp) sea salt
- 250ml (1 cup) whole milk, warmed to 38°C (100°F)
- 75g (1/3 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 10g (1 tbsp) ground cardamom
Equipment Required:
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry Brush
- Oven
Cooking Time:
Total estimated time: 3 hours
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, room temperature butter, and eggs. Ensure all components are well combined. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and knead using the dough hook attachment on the stand mixer for about 8-10 minutes or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter, sugar, and ground cardamom until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Once the dough has risen, roll it out onto a floured surface to a rectangle approximately 30cm x 50cm (12in x 20in) in size. Evenly spread the cardamom filling over the dough. Carefully roll the dough from the longer side into a tight log. Cut the log into 16-18 equal portions.
Step 5: Second Rise
Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly. Cover and allow to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed and almost doubled in size.
Step 6: Baking
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Before baking, gently brush the tops of the buns with a beaten egg to ensure a golden, shiny finish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the tops are a beautiful golden-brown.
Step 7: Enjoy
Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of cardamom with every bite.
Conclusion
Congratulations on baking a batch of heavenly cardamom buns! Their aromatic spice and buttery center offer not just flavor, but a comforting sense of tradition. These buns are a testament to the wonderful results achievable with basic ingredients and a little patience. As you share these buns with family and friends, you’re not just offering them a treat, but a cherished piece of culinary history. We encourage you to continue experimenting with flavors, adding your unique twist to timeless recipes. Happy baking!
