Chelsea buns –
Chelsea Buns are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of spices and the sweetness of currants, all wrapped in soft, pillowy dough. Originating from the Chelsea area of London, these buns are perfect for a weekend indulgence or a festive gathering. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe that guides you through creating these delicious pasteries at home.
Chelsea Buns
Begin your culinary journey with a visual treat. Take a look at the image of Chelsea Buns:
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 75g (1/3 cup) sugar
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
- 10g (2 tsp) instant yeast
- 200ml (¾ cup) milk, warmed
- 50g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the filling:
- 100g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 100g (½ cup) brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 200g (1 cup) currants or raisins
- 50g (½ cup) chopped mixed peel (optional)
For the glaze:
- 75g (⅓ cup) sugar
- 50ml (3.5 tbsp) water
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Make a well in the center and add the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes or until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
3. After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1 cm thick.
4. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, currants, and mixed peel evenly across the surface.
5. Roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log. Cut the log into even slices, approximately 2 cm wide.
6. Arrange the slices on a greased baking tray, cutting side up. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the buns for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
8. For the glaze, combine the sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Brush the glaze over the warm buns after removing them from the oven.
9. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Chelsea Buns fresh from the oven!