Mallorca buns

Ingredients

Buns

active dry yeast: 7 grams (2.5 teaspoons)
warm water (40°C/104°F): 120 milliliters (1/2 cup)
warm milk: 180 milliliters (3/4 cup)
melted butter: 120 grams (1/2 cup)
butter for greasing: 60 grams (4 tablespoons)
sugar: 70 grams (1/3 cup)
salt: 1.25 milliliters (1/4 teaspoon)
egg yolks: 3 pieces
flour: 480 grams (4 cups)
vanilla extract: 5 milliliters (1 teaspoon)
powdered sugar for sprinkling: to taste

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
You'll need a large mixing bowl to combine all your ingredients efficiently. Make sure it's spacious enough for the dough to rise properly.
Wooden Spoon
This helps in mixing the dough thoroughly. A sturdy spoon is essential to handle thick dough.
Sifter
Sifting the flour ensures a lump-free, airy dough. A fine mesh sifter works best.
Rolling Pin
For rolling out the dough into a perfect rectangle. A non-stick rolling pin can make the job easier.
Baking Sheet
A parchment-covered baking sheet prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
Clean Towel
Covering the dough with a towel during rising keeps it warm and prevents it from drying out.
Oven
A reliable oven preheated to 356°F (180°C) is crucial for even baking.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Pour the yeast into the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture begins to foam. Make sure the water is around 40°C/104°F to activate the yeast properly.

Step 2

2. Add the warm milk, melted and cooled butter, sugar, salt, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth. Ensure the butter is cooled to room temperature to prevent cooking the eggs.

Step 3

3. Sift the flour in batches, stirring after each addition, until all the flour is incorporated and the dough forms a ball. Sifting the flour helps achieve a fluffier texture by incorporating air.

Step 4

4. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for 1 to 1.5 hours in a warm place until it doubles in size. For a better rise, place the bowl in a slightly warm (but turned-off) oven.

Step 5

5. Roll out the dough into a 45 x 35 cm (18 x 14 inch) rectangle. Brush the surface with melted butter.

Step 6

6. Cut the dough along its longer side into strips about 2.5 cm (1 inch) wide. Roll these strips into rolls or spirals, and place them on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper.

Step 7

7. Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for another hour.

Step 8

8. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the buns for 12-18 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Check the buns at the 12-minute mark to avoid over-baking.

Step 9

9. Sprinkle the buns with powdered sugar before serving. For an extra touch, you can drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.

Servings

🍽️ Serving Suggestions and Ideas 🌟

These delightful buns are an *absolute treat* to be enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but the fun doesn't stop there! If you're serving them for breakfast or brunch, pair them with a dollop of fresh jam or a smear of creamy butter. For a savory twist, consider serving your buns alongside a hearty soup or stew—perfect for dunking and savoring every bite. 🥣

Hosting a gathering or picnic? Arrange these buns in a basket lined with a charming cloth napkin and watch them disappear in no time. Sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top for that *extra touch of sweetness* and visual appeal. Feeling fancy? Drizzle some melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the buns for an indulgent treat! 🍫🍮

No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these buns promise to be a crowd-pleaser, adding a *warm and comforting* touch to any meal or occasion. Get creative, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite toppings and sides! 🎉🧁

Variations

🌟 Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations 🍃

**Gluten-Free:** To make these buns gluten-free, simply substitute the regular flour with a quality gluten-free baking flour mix. Ensure that your yeast and other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well. This way, everyone, even those with gluten sensitivities, can enjoy these tasty treats! 🌾

**Vegan:** For a vegan version, replace the warm milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. Instead of butter, use a vegan margarine or coconut oil, and swap the egg yolks with a mix of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water per egg yolk). This will ensure your buns stay *deliciously fluffy* and perfect for vegan diets! 🌱

Adapting recipes to meet various dietary needs is not only thoughtful but also allows everyone to partake in the flavorful joy of homemade baking. Give these variations a try and share the love! 🥰

Faq

Why didn't my dough rise?
Check if your yeast is still active; old or expired yeast may not work well. Also, ensure the environment is warm enough for the dough to rise.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can. Just remember to adjust the quantity as needed and follow the specific instructions for instant yeast.
Why are my buns too dense?
This could be due to over-kneading or not giving the dough enough time to rise. Make sure to follow the rising times carefully.
Can I add mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips to enhance your buns with extra flavors and textures.
How can I store leftover buns?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in a warm oven or microwave.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling and baking.