Scottish baps

Scottish Baps - An Easy and Delicious Recipe

When it comes to bread, there’s nothing more comforting than baking a fresh loaf in your own kitchen. Today, I invite you on our culinary journey to discover the wonderful recipe for Scottish baps. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion and will delight your taste buds. Whether you serve them alongside a warm soup or as a delicious accompaniment for a picnic, these rolls are versatile and easy to prepare.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 9 rolls

Ingredients

- 750 g wheat flour
- 250 ml milk
- 200 ml water
- 50 g butter
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 7 g dry yeast or 25 g fresh yeast (one cube)

Necessary utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Sifter for flour
- Measuring jug for liquids
- Small pot for warming liquids
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper (optional)

A brief history of the recipe

Scottish baps have a rich history and are cherished for their soft texture and slightly sweet taste. These rolls are often served at festive meals or as part of a traditional breakfast. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each cook adding a personal touch. With every bite, you’ll feel the tradition and warmth of these little delights.

Step by step - Preparing the Scottish baps

1. Sifting the flour
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential, as aerating the flour will help achieve a fine texture. Add the salt and mix gently.

2. Activating the yeast
In a small jug, place the dry yeast (or the cube of fresh yeast) together with a teaspoon of sugar and a little warm milk from the total amount. Mix well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This is proof that the yeast is active.

3. Preparing the liquids
In a small pot, heat the milk and water until lukewarm (about 40 degrees Celsius). Add the butter and mix until completely melted. This combination will give a rich flavor and soft texture to the rolls.

4. Forming the dough
Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Then, add the warm liquids with butter. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix the ingredients until a dough forms.

5. Kneading
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes. If it feels sticky, add a sprinkle of flour. The dough should become elastic and smooth.

6. First rise
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for one hour, or until it doubles in size.

7. Forming the baps
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 9 equal portions. Shape each piece into a ball, then gently flatten it. Press in the center of each roll with your finger to form a dent. Place the baps on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to rise.

8. Second rise
Cover the rolls again with a towel and let them rise for 30 minutes until they become fluffy.

9. Preparing for baking
Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Before placing them in the oven, brush the baps with a little milk and sprinkle a bit of flour on top for a beautiful crust.

10. Baking
Bake the baps for 15 minutes for a soft crust or 20 minutes for a crunchier crust. Check them occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.

11. Cooling
After baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This is the perfect time to enjoy the enticing aroma that fills the house.

Chef's tip

For an extra flavor boost, you can add dried herbs or grated cheese to the dough before kneading. Also, for a sweet touch, try adding a few tablespoons of honey instead of sugar.

Variations and serving

These baps pair wonderfully with a warm soup, but they are just as delicious with butter and jam or even filled with meat and vegetables for a hearty lunch. You can also enjoy them with a cup of fragrant tea or a refreshing drink.

Nutritional benefits

- Wheat flour contains fiber, which aids digestion.
- Butter adds healthy fats that are essential for a balanced diet.
- Milk provides calcium, contributing to bone health.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace some of the white flour with whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of water.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh yeast?
You can use dry yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount – 7 g of dry yeast is sufficient to ferment the dough.

How can I store the baps after baking?
You can store the baps in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

This Scottish baps recipe is not only easy to make but also brings a touch of warmth and tradition to every meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment and sprinkle a little magic in your kitchen! Enjoy!