Lemon Spiced Dinner Buns
Ingredients
- 400 g strong bread flour
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 7 g dry yeast
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
- 50 g unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tbsp melted butter
- 1 lemon Zest
For Garnish
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 tbsp cold water
- 1 tbsp crushed almondsSesame seeds
Instructions
Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl or jug, combine half of the water with the sugar and yeast. Set aside for 4-5 minutes to proof. The mixture should develop a thick, frothy layer on top.
- This is a great proof that the yeast is active.
Forming the Dough
- Sift the flours into the bowl of an electric mixer. Add the salt and stir well to combine.
- Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture. Pour in the yeast mixture, add the eggs, and stir together with a wooden spoon.
- Gradually add the remaining water, a little at a time, until the dough just comes together, with a little flour still remaining at the bottom of the bowl.
- Add the softened butter and knead, using the dough hook, until the butter is fully incorporated into the dough.
Knead The Dough
- Set the mixer on low and knead for further 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic and shiny.
First Proof
- Lightly oil the dough, cover the bowl with a clean cloth, and leave it to proof for 1-1½ hours at room temperature, until doubled in size.
Add the Lemon Spice
- Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
- Using your fingers, gently stretch the dough out, then brush the chilled melted butter all over the surface and sprinkle with the lemon zest.
- Fold the dough over itself, lightly dust with flour, and knead until smooth and soft once again.
- Set the dough aside to rest for another 5 minutes.
Shape the Buns
- Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape each one into a ball, tucking the edges underneath to create a smooth surface.
- Arrange the buns on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Cover with a clean cloth and leave to proof for a further 45 minutes.
Bake the Buns
- Preheat the oven to 200°C / 180°C fan / 400°F / Gas Mark 6.
- Beat the remaining egg with 1 tbsp cold water. Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash, then sprinkle with the crushed almonds.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the buns are beautifully golden on top.