Homemade Apricot Jam-Filled Buns

Instructions for Making Homemade Apricot Jam-Filled Buns:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and stir. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center, and add the yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough.
4. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Buns

1. Preheat the oven: Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle or square, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cut into squares: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 2-inch squares (or larger if you prefer bigger buns).
4. Fill with apricot jam: Place a small spoonful of apricot jam (about 1 teaspoon) in the center of each square. You can add a small squeeze of lemon juice to the jam for extra tang, but this is optional. Fold the edges of each dough square over the jam, pinching them together to seal and form a bun. Ensure the jam is fully enclosed.
5. Place on a baking sheet: Arrange the filled buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.

Step 3: Bake the Buns

1. Let the buns rise: Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and allow them to rise for about 20-30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
2. Bake the buns: Once they have risen, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown on top and fully cooked through.
3. Cool slightly: Remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.

Step 4: Optional Glaze

1. Prepare the glaze (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle this over the warm buns for a sweet finishing touch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your apricot jam-filled buns have cooled slightly, they’re ready to enjoy! These buns are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.

Tips for the Best Homemade Apricot Jam-Filled Buns:

• Make your own jam: If you want a homemade touch, make your own apricot jam! Homemade jam can be a great way to use fresh apricots when in season.
• Allow the dough to rise: Don’t rush the rising process. Letting the dough rise properly ensures your buns will be light, airy, and soft.
• Experiment with other fillings: While apricot is a delicious classic, feel free to experiment with other jams or preserves such as raspberry, strawberry, or peach for a twist on the traditional recipe.
• Serve warm: These buns are best enjoyed when they are fresh and warm from the oven, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Apricot Jam-Filled Buns

These buns offer a delightful combination of soft, pillowy dough and the tart-sweet apricot filling that will satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a special treat, Homemade Apricot Jam-Filled Buns are sure to impress your friends and family. They are an easy-to-make, customizable, and utterly delicious way to bring a little sweetness into your day.