Ingredients

The following ingredients have 4 Servings
  • 1 1/3 cups whole milk (112° to 115°)
  • 2/3 cup caster sugar
  • 1 package active yeast
  • 5 cups bread flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • zest of 1 orange
  • 1 cup currants
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • ½ cup apricot jam
  • 3 tablespoons bread flour
  • 4 tablespoons water

Instruction

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast until combined. Let stand for 5-7 minutes or until a raft forms.
  • In the meantime, in a sperate bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and spices until combined.
  • Cut the butter into the flour mixture using a pastry knife until it is about the size of rice. You may need to use your hands to further break it up.
  • Fold the orange zest and currants into the dry mixture.
  • Fix the hook attachment to the stand mixer and begin to mix on low speed while adding 1 cup of the flour mixture at a time until mixed in.
  • Next, add in 1 egg at a time until mixed in, and then add in the vanilla until mixed in.
  • Turn the speed to low-medium and knead for about 4 to 5 minutes. The dough should be a little sticky.
  • Cover the bowl and let proof in a warm dark place until doubled in size, which can take up to 2 hours.
  • Next, transfer the dough to a clean surface lightly dusted with flour and knead the dough for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Form 15 individual dough balls and roll them into a round shape and place them into a large baking pan lined with parchment paper. Proof them for 1 more hour covered with a towel.
  • While proofing, whisk together flour and water and then transfer it to a piping bag with the tip cut off or with a small round tip.
  • Once the buns are done proofing use the flour-water mixture and pipe crosses on each bun.
  • Bake in the oven at 350° for 22 to 25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
  • Transfer the buns to a cooling rack.
  • In the meantime, melt some apricot jam in a small sauce pan just until melted and then brush the tops of the warm buns with it. Serve.