Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Small saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Add the warm milk and melted butter and mix until combined.
3. Add the eggs and mix until combined.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Meanwhile, make the caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, cream, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch square.
9. Brush the dough with the melted butter.
10. Spread the caramel sauce over the dough.
11. Roll the dough up into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
12. Place the buns on the prepared baking sheets and let rise for 30 minutes.
13. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
14. Let cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 12 buns
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: whole wheat flour
- Granulated sugar: coconut sugar
- Light brown sugar: dark brown sugar
- Heavy cream: almond milk
Variations:
- Add 1 cup of chopped nuts to the dough for added crunch.
- Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the caramel sauce for a hint of spice.
- Add 1 cup of raisins to the dough for added sweetness.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the milk is warm, but not hot, when adding it to the dough.
- Make sure the butter is melted, but not hot, when adding it to the dough.
- Make sure the caramel sauce is bubbly before spreading it on the dough.
Storage Instructions:
Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the buns in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the buns warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt parfait
- Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a bit more milk.
- If the caramel sauce is too thick, add a bit more cream.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
- Make sure all utensils and surfaces are clean before using.
- Make sure to store the buns in an airtight container.
Food History:
Belgian caramel buns are a traditional treat in Belgium. They are often served as a dessert or snack.
Flavor Profiles:
The buns are sweet and buttery with a hint of vanilla and caramel.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the buns with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet treat.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Belgian
Taste: Sweet, Buttery, Caramelized, Nutty, Spicy