If you’ve ever craved a cozy, slightly sweet treat that pairs perfectly with your afternoon cup, this Tea Buns Recipe is an absolute gem to have on hand. Hailing from the heart of Newfoundland’s cherished baking traditions, these delicate tea buns offer a tender crumb with just the right bit of sugary sparkle and, if you choose, a burst of plump raisins or currants. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or wrapped up for a snack later, these buns are the kind of comforting bite that feels like a warm hug in every mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for these tea buns is as simple as it is satisfying. Each item plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and that golden glow these buns are known for. From the flour that forms the dough’s foundation to the cold butter that creates beautiful flakiness, everything works harmoniously.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Your leavening agent ensuring those buns rise lightly and beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just enough to brighten flavors without overpowering sweetness.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that’s just right.
- 3/4 cup cold butter, cubed: Key for that flaky, tender crumb; using cold butter is essential.
- 1 cup raisins or currants (optional): Tiny bursts of chewy sweetness that add character, if you like fruity hints.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and enriches the dough.
- 1 cup milk: Provides moisture and helps develop a soft texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Gives a subtle aromatic note that elevates the whole bun experience.
How to Make Tea Buns Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven up to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for ensuring your buns bake evenly and don’t stick, setting up the stage for baking success.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined. This helps make sure your buns have an even rise and balanced flavor throughout.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Next, add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or even your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step creates those delightful flaky layers that make each bite so irresistible.
Step 4: Add the Raisins
If you’re using raisins or currants, stir them in now. They add a lovely sweetness and a bit of chewiness that’s traditional and tasty, but feel free to skip if you prefer plain buns.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk and vanilla extract. This mixture will bring the dough together while adding richness and flavor.
Step 6: Form the Dough
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir just until a soft dough forms—take care not to overmix, or your buns may become tough. Then, transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly just until it holds together.
Step 7: Cut and Shape
Pat the dough out to about 1-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter or a glass rim to cut out rounds. Place these on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly so they bake uniformly.
Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, until the tops are a gorgeous golden brown. This stage results in buns that are soft inside with a slightly crisp exterior, just begging to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Tea Buns Recipe
Garnishes
These tea buns are perfect with a smear of creamy butter or a spoonful of your favorite jam. For a savory twist, a thin slice of sharp cheddar cheese complements the slight sweetness beautifully. Brushing the tops with a little milk before baking also adds a lovely sheen and tender crust.
Side Dishes
Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an ideal snack or light breakfast. For something heartier, enjoy alongside a bowl of steaming soup or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the buns warm stacked in a pretty basket lined with a cloth napkin for a charming tea party vibe. You can also slice them open and create mini sandwiches with honey and cream cheese or your favorite nut butter for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft texture without drying out.
Freezing
Tea buns freeze remarkably well. Wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them all in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep deliciously fresh for up to three months, ready to be enjoyed whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring your tea buns back to life, warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. They’ll taste just like freshly baked and warm your soul instantly.
FAQs
Can I make this Tea Buns Recipe without raisins or currants?
Absolutely! The raisins or currants are optional and can be omitted if you prefer plain buns. They’re delicious either way, so customize according to your taste.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
All-purpose flour works best for the right texture, but you could try a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind the buns might be a bit denser.
Is there a way to make these buns vegan?
You can swap the butter for a vegan margarine and use a plant-based milk along with a flaxseed egg substitute. The texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still bake up nicely.
How do I know when the Tea Buns are done?
Look for buns that are golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. When you tap the bottom, it should sound hollow, indicating they’re fully baked.
Can I add different dried fruits or nuts?
Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or even chopped nuts like walnuts for extra texture and flavor. It’s a great way to make this Tea Buns Recipe your own.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the simple pleasure of homemade tea buns, especially when they come together so easily and taste so wonderful. This Tea Buns Recipe is a delightful way to bring a bit of comforting tradition into your kitchen, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying quietly with your favorite warm drink. I hope you’ll try them soon and discover how incredibly satisfying this humble treat can be.
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Tea Buns Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 buns
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Newfoundland, Canadian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This traditional Newfoundland Tea Buns recipe features tender, slightly sweet buns studded with plump raisins or currants. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these buttery buns are easy to make and pair wonderfully with butter, jam, or cheddar cheese alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup raisins or currants (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This combines the leavening agents with the flour and evenly distributes the salt and sugar.
- Cut in Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step creates a flaky texture in the buns.
- Add Raisins or Currants: Stir in the raisins or currants if you are using them, distributing the fruit evenly throughout the crumbly mixture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the milk and vanilla extract to create the wet mixture that will bring the dough together.
- Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the buns tender.
- Knead Lightly: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead very lightly just until it comes together, ensuring it doesn’t become tough.
- Shape the Buns: Pat the dough to about 1-inch thickness and cut out rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass to shape the buns.
- Bake: Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the buns cool slightly before serving warm with butter, jam, or cheddar cheese.
Notes
- Serve the buns warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
- Perfect accompaniment to tea or coffee, making them ideal for breakfast or a snack.
- These buns freeze well; reheat them gently before serving.
- For extra richness and a shinier crust, brush the tops with a little milk before baking.
