Yangzhou Honey Buns

Background and History

The Yangzhou Honey Bun is a delicious pastry with a rich history that roots back to the Jiangsu province of eastern China. Known for its light, sweet taste, this bun encapsulates the sweet culture of Yangzhou, a city famed for its gardens and creativity in cuisine. The bun harmonizes the gentle sweetness of honey with a tender dough, making it an enchanting snack for locals and visitors alike.

The traditional approach to making these honey buns involves using fresh and locally sourced honey, which adds an authentic touch to this favorite snack. Over the centuries, the recipe has been adapted but the core ingredients and technique remain cherished, keeping the spirit of Yangzhou’s culinary delight alive in every bite.

Ingredients

• Flour - 500g
• Milk - 250ml
• Yeast - 1 packet
• Sugar - 50g
• Butter - 50g, softened
• Honey - 100g
• Egg - 1 large
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Baking Powder - 1 tsp

Preparation Steps

Before you start, prepare your workspace to ensure you have easy access to each ingredient. Gather your flour, milk, yeast, sugar, butter, honey, and egg. Make sure your butter is softened, and pre-measure your baking powder and salt.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix the yeast and sugar with warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring that your buns will rise well during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the egg and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air, and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball slightly and place a teaspoon of honey in the center. Pinch the edges together to seal the opening and shape back into a bun. Place the buns on a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them for expansion.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat and Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). As your oven preheats, let the buns undergo a second rise for about 20-30 minutes. This crucial step ensures they become soft and fluffy. After rising, brush the tops with a beaten egg wash to give them a glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Set your cooking timer and monitor the buns, ensuring they don’t overbake. Baking times may slightly vary depending on your oven.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy the Yangzhou Honey Buns while they are still warm, paired with a refreshing cup of green tea. These buns make an ideal breakfast treat or a delightful afternoon snack. Their subtle sweetness and airy texture will make them a family favorite in no time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume them within a couple of days for optimal freshness.