Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and saffron.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the melted butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating until fully incorporated.
5. Add the buttermilk and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the chocolate chips.
8. Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the buns are set.
10. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes 18-20 buns
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: can be substituted with whole wheat flour
- Buttermilk: can be substituted with plain yogurt
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: can be substituted with dark chocolate chips
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts for a crunchy texture
- Add 1/4 cup dried cranberries for a tart flavor
- Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut for a tropical flavor
Tips and Tricks:
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips
- For a more intense saffron flavor, use more ground saffron
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream
- Serve with a drizzle of melted chocolate
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts
- Drizzle with melted chocolate
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt parfait
- Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the buns are too dry, add a tablespoon of buttermilk
- If the buns are too wet, add a tablespoon of flour
Food Safety Advice:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
Food History:
Saffron has been used in baking for centuries, and is believed to have originated in the Middle East. Chocolate has been used in baking since the 16th century, and is believed to have originated in Central America.
Flavor Profiles:
Chocolate-saffron buns have a rich, sweet, and slightly earthy flavor. The saffron adds a subtle floral note, while the chocolate adds a deep, rich flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Chocolate-saffron buns are best served warm, with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They can also be served with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
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