Cardamom Spiced Buns with Raisins and Dried Cherries

Recipe:

Ingredient Notes:

• Yeast. This recipe calls for instant dry yeast that is mixed directly with the flour. If you only have fresh yeast, use three times the amount (by weight). Dissolve it in 100 ml of warm water (not exceeding 45°C/113°F) and add it to the flour along with the rest of the wet ingredients.
• Flour. This recipe is designed for all-purpose flour with a protein content of around 10%.
• Butter. Use high-quality unsalted butter with at least 0% fat content. I don’t recommend substituting oil for butter in this specific recipe.
• Eggs. Use Large (US) or Size M (EU) eggs, which weigh about 50–55g without the shell.
• Water. These buns are made with water instead of milk, and it works perfectly. However, if you prefer, you can swap the water for regular milk (2–4% fat).
• Sugar. Essential for the yeast to work. If you prefer your buns on the sweeter side, feel free to slightly increase the amount.
• Cardamom. This is the star of the show and what gives the buns their unique flavor profile. Technically, you can bake them without it, but they will lose their character. There is no true substitute for its specific aroma.
• Mix-ins. You have total freedom here! I used a mix of raisins and cherries, but you can stick to one or get creative with dried apricots, candied pineapple, or even chocolate chips.

Let’s start cooking!

In a large bowl, combine yeast, cardamom, sugar, and 10 tablespoons (250 grams) of sifted flour.

In a small saucepan, combine water and butter over heat. Stir constantly until the butter melts. The mixture should not be hot.

Using a mixer on low speed, gradually add the liquid to the flour mixture and mix for 2 more minutes. Add the eggs, then add another 3 tablespoons (75 g) of flour and mix for 2 more minutes. Add 350 grams of flour and knead into a soft dough. Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If necessary, add an additional 25 grams of flour.

Add the dried fruit.

Knead again.

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in volume.

Punch down the dough and divide it into 16 equal pieces. Let the pieces rest for 10 minutes.

Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 30-40 minutes. During this time, the dough pieces should double in size.

Brush the buns with a mixture of egg yolk and milk, then bake in a preheated 180°С (350°F) oven for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown. Sprinkle the finished buns with powdered sugar, if desired.

Enjoy!

This Cardamom Spiced Buns with Raisins and Dried Cherries recipe was checked, prepared and approved by Chef Tatyana Nazaruk - author of FlavorIt.com.
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