Bakery > Sweet Bakery > Chinese Sweet Bakery > Lotus Seed Buns

Lotus Seed Buns with Custard Filling Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup lotus seeds
- 1/2 cup custard powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup warm milk

Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the vegetable oil and warm water, and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Cut out circles with a biscuit cutter or glass.
7. Place the circles on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine the lotus seeds, custard powder, sugar, butter, and warm milk.
9. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
10. Remove from heat and let cool.
11. Once the buns are done baking, let them cool completely.
12. Spread the custard filling on the buns and serve.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: Makes 12 buns

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with melted butter or coconut oil.
- Lotus seeds can be substituted with sesame seeds.

Variations:
- The custard filling can be replaced with a sweet bean paste.
- The buns can be filled with a savory filling such as minced pork or mushrooms.

Tips and Tricks:
- The dough should be kneaded until it is smooth and elastic.
- The custard filling should be cooled completely before spreading on the buns.

Storage Instructions:
The buns can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The buns can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
The buns can be served on a platter or in individual plates.

Garnishes:
The buns can be garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruit.

Pairings:
The buns can be served with a cup of tea or coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
The buns can be served with a side of fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until it comes together.
- If the custard filling is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are stored properly and not expired.
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling food.

Food History:
Lotus seed buns are a traditional Chinese pastry that is often served during special occasions.

Flavor Profiles:
The buns are sweet and savory with a hint of nuttiness from the lotus seeds.

Serving Suggestions:
The buns can be served as a snack or dessert.

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Region: Chinese

Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Savory