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Saffron Buns from St. Lucia

Saffron Buns from St. Lucia

Soft, golden saffron buns scented with warm spice and dotted with raisins. Perfect for a festive breakfast or cozy snack.
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 44 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed about 110°F
  • 0.5 tsp saffron threads, lightly crumbled
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 large egg, room temperature for the dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 cup raisins for decorating the buns
  • 1 large egg for egg wash
  • 1 tsp water for egg wash

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Warm the milk until just steaming, stir in saffron, cover, and let steep 10 minutes. Cool to lukewarm.
  • Stir in the sugar, then sprinkle yeast over the warm saffron milk. Let stand until foamy, 5–10 minutes.
  • Whisk in the melted butter and 1 egg until the mixture is smooth and golden.
  • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the saffron mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead on a lightly floured surface (or mixer) until smooth and elastic, 8–10 minutes.
  • Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, 60–90 minutes.
  • Line two baking sheets with parchment. Divide dough into 12 pieces. Roll each into a 10–12 inch rope and curl ends into an S shape. Press a raisin into each spiral.
  • Cover and proof until puffy, 30–45 minutes. Preheat oven to 400°F while they proof.
  • Beat the remaining egg with 1 tsp water. Brush buns and bake 12–14 minutes until deep golden. Cool on a rack before serving.

Notes

Try a pinch of ground cardamom in the dough for a floral twist, or swap raisins for currants. For extra shine, brush hot buns with a little warm simple syrup. Store airtight at room temperature up to 2 days; rewarm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or freeze up to 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Saffron Buns from St. Lucia flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.