Spice and Stir

Coconut Buns Recipe

Yields: Approximately 2-3 dozen buns, depending on size. Prep time: 30 minutes Bake time: 15-25 minutes Oven temperature: 325°F (163°C)

Ingredients:

• Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated white sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup cold milk (whole milk preferred)

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Dry Ingredients:

• 10 cups all-purpose flour (spoon and level measurement)

• 2 tablespoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

• 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• Add-ins:

• 1 cup chopped raisins

• 1/2 cup chopped glace cherries (optional)

Instructions:

• Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but can be done by hand.

• Add Egg: Beat in the egg until well combined. The mixture should be smooth.

• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, and lemon zest. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the cold milk and vegetable oil, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

• Add Flavorings and Add-ins: Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon juice, raisins, and cherries (if using).

• Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not so sticky that it clings to your hands. If the dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency.

• Shape Buns: Lightly flour a clean surface. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 2-3 tablespoons each) and shape them into round buns. You can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.

• Prepare Baking Sheet: Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

• Bake: Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for expansion. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15-25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown. The bottoms will brown faster than the tops. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

• Cool and Enjoy: Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving. They are delicious warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade coconut buns!