Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cardamom, and saffron.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until combined.
5. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk.
6. Fold in the raisins and almonds.
7. Drop the dough by the tablespoonful onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each bun.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. 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: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 buns
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: can be substituted with whole wheat flour
- Butter: can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil
- Buttermilk: can be substituted with almond milk or regular milk
- Golden raisins: can be substituted with regular raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates
- Slivered almonds: can be substituted with chopped walnuts or pecans
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon for a spiced version
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped dark chocolate for a chocolate version
- Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical version
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough or the buns will be tough.
- Let the buns cool completely before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the buns on a platter with a bowl of melted butter for dipping.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the buns are too dry, add a tablespoon of buttermilk at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- If the buns are too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
Food History:
Saffron and cardamom are both spices that have been used in baking for centuries. They are native to India and the Middle East and are often used in traditional recipes.
Flavor Profiles:
Saffron has a sweet, floral flavor with hints of honey and hay. Cardamom has a warm, spicy flavor with hints of citrus and pepper.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the buns warm with a pat of butter and a cup of tea or coffee.
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