If you have been searching for that delightful, soft, and slightly sweet bread to enjoy with your afternoon cuppa, this Tea Buns Recipe is exactly what you need. These charming little buns, tender on the inside with a golden crust topped with a sprinkle of coarse sugar, are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or alongside your favorite jam and tea. The subtle aroma of vanilla combined with the optional burst of raisins or currants makes each bite a warm embrace, transforming any ordinary tea time into a special moment that you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Tea Buns Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that work together harmoniously to create that perfect texture and flavor. Each item contributes something unique, whether it’s the soft rise from the yeast or the rich flavor from the melted butter, making this an accessible and rewarding baking project.
- 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure and chewiness to the buns.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps feed the yeast for a lovely rise.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): Works magic in making the dough rise fluffy and light.
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warm: Provides moisture and tenderness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and a tender crumb to each bun.
- 2 large eggs: Add structure and help bind the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives a warm, sweet aroma that makes these buns irresistible.
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional): For a delightful burst of sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash: Creates a shiny, golden crust on top.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping: Adds a pleasant crunch and sparkle to the buns.
How to Make Tea Buns Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by dissolving the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. This step is crucial because it wakes up the yeast and ensures that your dough will rise perfectly light and fluffy. Set it aside for 5 to 10 minutes until you see a frothy foam forming on the surface. That’s a sign your yeast is happy and ready to get to work.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients evenly now guarantees that every bite of your Tea Buns Recipe is well-balanced in flavor.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until a soft dough begins to form. The dough should be just sticky enough to feel tender but firm enough to shape.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading builds the gluten structure that makes these buns wonderfully chewy without falling apart. If you’re including raisins or currants, fold them in evenly during the final minutes of kneading.
Step 5: First Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size, looking puffy and inviting.
Step 6: Shape the Buns
Gently punch down the risen dough to release excess air, then divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each piece into a neat round bun and arrange them spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the buns again and let them rise for an additional 20 minutes to get that perfect puff.
Step 7: Prepare to Bake
Before the buns go into the oven, brush their tops with a beaten egg wash to achieve a glossy, golden finish. Sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for an irresistible crunch and subtle sparkle that makes your Tea Buns Recipe pop with personality.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 18 to 20 minutes until the buns turn a beautiful golden brown. Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly — but not too much, because these buns taste incredible warm, fresh from the oven and ready to be paired with your favorite tea or spread.
How to Serve Tea Buns Recipe
Garnishes
Though these tea buns are lovely on their own, a pat of butter or a dollop of jam can elevate your experience to something truly special. Try a smear of clotted cream or honey for a rich finish, and don’t forget a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Tea buns make an excellent accompaniment to fresh fruit or cheese plates, balancing sweet bread with juicy, tangy, or creamy tasting options. They’re also perfect alongside a warm bowl of soup or a fresh garden salad for a light lunch option.
Creative Ways to Present
Make tea time whimsical by stacking these buns on a tiered cake stand, interspersed with fresh flowers or herbs. Or, slice them open and fill with clotted cream, lemon curd, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready for quick snacks or breakfast on the go.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Tea Buns Recipe for longer, freeze the buns individually in a sealed bag or container. When well-wrapped, they can last up to 3 months without losing their delicious texture and flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy your buns as if freshly baked, reheat them in a warm oven for 5 to 10 minutes or microwave briefly with a damp paper towel to keep moisture. This returns that soft, just-baked goodness you love.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best for this Tea Buns Recipe because it provides the right balance of protein for a tender yet structured bun. Whole wheat flour could be used but will yield a denser texture.
What if I don’t have raisins or currants?
You can absolutely skip the dried fruit if you prefer a plain bun or substitute with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for a different flavor.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size and feel light and puffy. A gentle poke will leave an indentation that slowly fills back in, indicating it’s ready for shaping.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.
What’s the best way to enjoy tea buns?
These buns shine best when eaten fresh and slightly warm, paired with your favorite tea and simple accompaniments like butter, honey, or jam. They’re ideal for cozy moments and gatherings alike.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably comforting about freshly baked buns shared over a cup of tea, and this Tea Buns Recipe delivers that feeling effortlessly. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bring a touch of British tea-time tradition into your kitchen, creating warmth and joy not just in flavor but in the act of baking itself. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make these soft, golden buns a new favorite in your home.
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Tea Buns Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 buns
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic British Tea Buns recipe yields soft, slightly sweet buns perfect for breakfast or a teatime snack. Made with a tender yeast dough enriched with butter, eggs, and vanilla, these buns can be studded with raisins or currants for added texture and flavor. Finished with an egg wash and a sprinkle of coarse sugar, they bake to a golden brown with a delicate crust and fluffy interior. Serve warm with butter or jam alongside a cup of tea for a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Incorporate the raisins or currants now if using.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape Buns: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a round bun. Arrange the buns on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each.
- Second Rise: Cover the buns loosely and let them rise again for about 20 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Apply Topping: Brush the tops of the buns with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with coarse sugar for a crunchy, sweet finish.
- Bake: Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the buns to cool slightly. Serve warm, ideally with butter, jam, or alongside your favorite tea.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough.
- Serve the buns warm with butter or jam for a classic teatime experience.
- Store buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage, thaw before serving.
