Moldovan Saints

Fluffy Sweet Buns Recipe: A Traditional Delicacy for Holidays and Beyond

Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 11 large buns (or more if you make them smaller)

Welcome to a new culinary adventure! Today, I will share with you the secret to making sweet buns, a traditional recipe that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to every home. These fluffy treats, reminiscent of the Eastern European "mucenici," are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday or simply a regular day when you want to pamper your family.

A Brief Story

Sweet buns have a rich history, symbolizing generosity and kindness. They are often associated with religious celebrations but can also be enjoyed in everyday moments of life. Making them is an art, and the final result—a fluffy, fragrant dough brushed with honey and sprinkled with ground walnuts—is simply irresistible.

Ingredients

- 1.2 kg flour
- 35 g fresh yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 eggs + 1 egg for brushing
- 200 g sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- Zest of one orange and one lemon
- 400 ml warm milk
- 100 g melted butter
- Honey (to taste)
- Ground walnuts (for decoration)

Ingredient Details

- Flour: Choose high-quality flour, ideal for baking. Type 650 or 000 flour is perfect for achieving a fluffy dough.
- Yeast: Use fresh yeast for the best results. Make sure it is well-stored in the refrigerator and not expired.
- Milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast and adds moisture to the dough, contributing to its fluffy texture.
- Butter: Melted butter adds a rich flavor and delicious aroma.

Preparation Technique

1. Activating the Yeast: In a large bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. Dissolve the yeast in 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of warm milk, letting it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In the well of the flour, add salt, sugar, vanilla sugar, eggs (3), and citrus zest. Begin incorporating the ingredients with a fork.

3. Kneading the Dough: Gradually pour in the warm milk, and once the dough starts to form, add the melted butter. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

4. First Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

5. Shaping the Buns: Once the dough has risen, do not divide it into equal parts. Take a piece with your hand and roll it into a long strand. Fold it and braid it in two, joining the ends to form a ring. Then, twist the ring to create a figure-eight shape.

6. Second Rising: Place the buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cover them with foil, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the buns with beaten egg for a golden appearance and bake for 30-35 minutes until they are golden brown and fluffy.

8. Finishing Touch: Once you take them out of the oven, brush them with honey and generously sprinkle with ground walnuts.

Serving and Variations

Sweet buns are delicious served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. If you want to experiment, try soaking them in sugar syrup or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

For a fluffier version, add some dried fruit pieces to the dough, such as raisins or dried cherries. You can also try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a more aromatic flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, but you will need to use about 11-15 g of dry yeast. Dissolve it in the warm milk just like fresh yeast.

- How can I tell if the dough is well-kneaded?
A well-kneaded dough should be smooth, elastic, and not sticky to the hands. If it sticks, add a little more flour.

- What can I do if the buns don’t rise enough?
Make sure the place where you left the dough to rise is warm and humid. If it's too cold, the yeast won't activate properly.

Nutritional Information

One large sweet bun has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on how much sugar and honey you add. These delights are a good source of carbohydrates and, thanks to the eggs and butter, also provide protein and healthy fats.

Beverage Recommendations

Sweet buns pair wonderfully with a fragrant citrus tea or a strong espresso coffee. A cold lemonade will add a refreshing contrast to their sweetness, while a semi-dry white wine can perfectly complement the flavors.

I hope this recipe brings you joy and delicious moments with your loved ones. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of these fluffy sweet buns!