As I delve into the world of breakfast pastries, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Sweet Jam-Filled Breakfast Buns. These delectable morsels have a rich history dating back to European bakeries, where they were often enjoyed as a special weekend treat. The combination of soft, pillowy dough and sweet, fruity jam creates a perfect balance that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and start your day on a high note.
These buns, reminiscent of Danish pastries but with a unique twist, have become a staple in my household. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – you can use any jam or preserve you prefer, allowing for endless flavor combinations. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a special family breakfast, or simply treating yourself, these jam-filled buns are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp (7g) instant yeast
- 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, room temperature
For the filling:
- Assorted jams or preserves of your choice (about 3/4 cup or 180ml total)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, I combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. I whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution of the yeast and salt throughout the flour.
- In a separate bowl, I whisk together the warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C), melted butter, and egg until well combined. The warmth of the milk helps activate the yeast, while the butter and egg enrich the dough, giving it a tender texture.
- I make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Using a wooden spoon or my hands, I mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
- Once the dough comes together, I turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. I knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. This kneading process develops the gluten, which gives the buns their signature soft and chewy texture.
- I shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat the surface. I cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Filling the Buns
- Once the dough has risen, I gently punch it down to release the air. I divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions, depending on how large I want my buns to be. I shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and rolling it gently on the countertop.
- I place the dough balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one to allow for expansion during the second rise and baking.
- Using my thumb or the back of a spoon, I create a deep indentation in the center of each dough ball. This is where the jam will nestle, creating pockets of fruity goodness in each bun.
- I carefully spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of jam into each indentation, being careful not to overfill. This is where I can get creative with flavors – strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or even a mix of different jams can create a delightful variety.
- I cover the filled buns loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. During this time, they’ll puff up slightly, embracing the jam filling.
Baking to Perfection
- While the buns are on their second rise, I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature when it’s time to bake.
- Once the buns have risen and the oven is hot, I carefully place the baking sheet in the center of the oven. I bake the buns for 15-18 minutes, keeping a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
- The buns are done when they’ve turned a beautiful golden brown color and have puffed up around the jam filling. The jam should be bubbly and slightly set.
- I remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the buns cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the structure of the buns to set, making them easier to handle.
- After 5 minutes, I transfer the buns to a wire rack to cool completely. As tempting as it may be to bite into one immediately, allowing them to cool ensures the jam doesn’t burn your mouth and the texture of the bun is at its best.
Serving and Storing
These Sweet Jam-Filled Breakfast Buns are best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm. The contrast between the soft, pillowy dough and the sweet, fruity jam is truly irresistible. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 bun (based on 12 buns per recipe)
- Calories: Approximately 200-220 kcal
- Total Fat: 5-7g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Cholesterol: 25-30mg
- Sodium: 100-120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 10-12g (varies depending on jam used)
- Protein: 5-6g
Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours and 15 minutes (including rising time)
Conclusion
These Sweet Jam-Filled Breakfast Buns are more than just a recipe; they’re a journey into the heart of comforting, homemade pastries. The process of making them – from kneading the dough to watching it rise, and finally savoring the warm, jam-filled results – is deeply satisfying. Not only do they fill your home with an irresistible aroma, but they also provide a sense of accomplishment and a delicious reward for your efforts.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible and adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different jam flavors, or even try adding a streusel topping for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings its own unique charm to your breakfast table.
Remember, the key to perfect buns lies in patience during the rising process and careful attention during baking. With practice, you’ll develop a feel for the dough and be able to create these buns with ease, impressing family and friends with your baking skills.
So, why not start a new tradition of weekend baking with these Sweet Jam-Filled Breakfast Buns? They’re sure to become a beloved favorite, creating warm memories and satisfied smiles around your breakfast table. Happy baking!
