Berry Jam Filled Buns

Berry Jam Filled Buns are a delightful treat that can brighten up any day. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with the sweet-tart flavor of mixed berry jam, these buns are the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. The process of making these buns is not only rewarding but also a great way to engage with the art of baking. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets Berry Jam Filled Buns apart is their incredible texture and the burst of flavor from the berry jam. The combination of all-purpose and cupcake flour creates a tender, light bun that pairs perfectly with the luscious jam filling. The addition of orange zest adds a refreshing citrus note, elevating the flavor profile to a whole new level. These buns are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying to eat, making them a standout addition to any baking repertoire.

Ingredient Notes

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted) – This is the backbone of our buns, providing structure and chewiness.
• 1 cup cake flour (sifted) – This adds tenderness, making the buns light and fluffy.
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast – This is crucial for the buns to rise properly and achieve a soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the jam.
• 4 tablespoons white sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough.
• 2 cups milk (lukewarm) – Activates the yeast and helps create a soft dough.
• 3 large eggs – Provides richness and helps with the structure of the buns.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor depth to the dough.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the buns moist and tender.
• Orange zest (from one orange) – Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the berries.
• 1 cup mixed berry jam – The star filling that brings sweetness and tartness.
• 1/4 cup butter (for brushing between buns and baking pan) – Adds flavor and helps with browning.
• 1 egg (for egg wash) – Gives the buns a beautiful golden color once baked.
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting) – Adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Appliances & Accessories

• Mixing bowls – For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk – To blend the eggs and other wet ingredients smoothly.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer – Makes the dough mixing process easier, but you can also knead by hand.
• Baking sheet – To place the buns on for baking.
• Plastic wrap or a damp cloth – To cover the dough while it rises.
• Pastry brush – For applying the egg wash and butter.

Berry Jam Filled Buns: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted all-purpose flour, cake flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Ensure the mixture is well blended.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for approximately 10 minutes.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Spread the mixed berry jam evenly over the dough.

Step 6: Roll and Cut

Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the buns cut side up in a greased baking pan, ensuring they are slightly spaced apart.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the buns with a damp cloth and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until they puff up.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and brush them with melted butter. Allow them to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Make It Lighter

• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Replace part of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk to reduce calories.
• Omit the powdered sugar topping for a lighter finish.

Pro Perspective

When baking Berry Jam Filled Buns, timing is crucial. Allowing adequate rising time is essential for achieving that fluffy texture. Don’t rush the process; patience is key. Additionally, using high-quality berry jam can elevate the flavor significantly. If you have homemade jam, now is the perfect time to use it!

Make Ahead Like a Pro

To save time, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After shaping the buns, cover and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked Berry Jam Filled Buns with minimal morning effort!

Berry Jam Filled Buns FAQs

Can I use other types of jam?

Absolutely! While mixed berry jam is delicious, feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or even apricot jam.

How do I store leftover buns?

Store the cooled buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Can I make these buns vegan?

Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure that your milk isn’t too hot when combining with yeast, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.

In Closing

Berry Jam Filled Buns are more than just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that can bring joy to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just because, these buns are sure to impress. With their soft, fluffy dough and delightful jam filling, they are a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process of making them, share with loved ones, and savor every delicious bite!