The aroma of freshly baked goods escaping from the oven can transform any morning into a cozy escape. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns, where the delicate notes of Earl Grey tea intertwine with the vibrant zest of orange, creating an unparalleled breakfast pastry. This delightful treat combines the beautiful flakiness of croissants with the sweet familiarity of cinnamon rolls. What sets these buns apart is the fun challenge of laminating dough—perfect for those looking to elevate their baking skills! They’re not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for a weekend brunch or an indulgent breakfast at home. Ready to bring a touch of café magic to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the process of creating these delightful morning buns!
Why are Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns a must-try?
Irresistible Aroma: The scent of warm dough infused with Earl Grey tea and citrus will awaken your senses and make your kitchen feel like a cozy café.
Flaky Perfection: Enjoy the satisfying layers that come from the art of laminating dough, making every bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Flavor: Feel free to swap out the Earl Grey for another favorite tea or experiment with different citrus zests for a unique twist!
Simple Yet Impressive: Ideal for both novice and experienced bakers, these buns elevate your brunch game without overwhelming complexity, much like Pumpkin French Toast does!
Perfect for Sharing: Serve them at family gatherings or brunch with friends; they’re sure to impress and vanish quickly!
Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for the dough; substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
• Bread Flour – Enhances chewiness and structure; use all-purpose flour if unavailable.
• Active Yeast – Leavens the dough, creating rise and fluffiness; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps brown the buns; reduce for a less sweet version.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and tightens gluten structure; essential for dough development.
• Milk – Contributes to moisture and richness in the dough; any milk type works, including non-dairy alternatives.
• Egg – Adds richness and helps bind ingredients; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Butter (for lamination) – Creates flaky layers in the dough; use high-fat butter for the best results.
For the Filling
• Melted Butter – Enhances flavor and moisture in the filling; always allow butter to cool before using.
• Sugar (for filling) – Provides sweetness and texture; adjust to taste.
• Zest of Oranges – Adds brightness and citrus flavor; lemons can be substituted if oranges aren’t available.
• Earl Grey Tea Leaves – Infuses the dough with distinct tea flavor; use loose tea or tea bags, adjusting quantity to taste.
For the Finish
• Egg (for brushing) – Ensures a golden-brown finish; omit for a vegan option.
Get ready to experience a delightful blend of flavors with these Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine equal parts all-purpose and bread flour, along with active yeast, sugar, salt, milk, and a beaten egg. Mix until a smooth and slightly sticky dough forms; this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 1 hour, allowing it to relax and develop flavor before lamination.
Step 2: Create Butter Envelope
Take a sheet of parchment paper and spread softened butter into a rectangle approximately 8×10 inches. Fold the parchment over the butter and place it in the refrigerator to firm up for about 30-45 minutes. This process ensures the butter is pliable yet cold, making it easier to laminate the dough effectively, which is crucial for those delightful layers in the Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns.
Step 3: Laminate Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle of about 12×24 inches. Place the chilled butter envelope on the lower two-thirds of the dough. Fold the top third down over the butter, sealing the edges. Roll the dough out to about 24×12 inches again, then fold it into thirds, like a letter. Repeat this rolling and folding process two more times, chilling the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes after each fold.
Step 4: Prepare Filling
In a medium bowl, mix melted butter with sugar, a pinch of salt, orange zest, and Earl Grey tea leaves until well combined. Set aside a small amount of sugar for later use to roll the buns. This fragrant mixture will create a deliciously citrusy and aromatic filling that complements the flaky texture of the Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns.
Step 5: Roll Out Dough
After the final chill, roll out the laminated dough again into a large rectangle, about 12×24 inches. Using a spatula, evenly spread the filling mixture over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape to create a beautiful spiral effect in each bun.
Step 6: Cut and Rise
Using a sharp knife or dough cutter, slice the rolled dough into 12-15 equal pieces. Arrange these pieces, cut side up, in a greased muffin tin or baking pan. Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and allow the buns to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until they visibly puff up. This step is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture in the Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the buns are rising. Once they have doubled in size, gently brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the buns are beautifully golden brown and puffed. Once baked, allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before rolling them in the reserved sugar mix for a sweet, delightful crust.
Expert Tips for Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns
• Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is cool but pliable for proper lamination; too soft can result in a greasy texture.
• Fresh Yeast Alert: Always check that your active yeast is fresh for a good rise; expired yeast can lead to dense buns.
• Chill between Steps: Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator between laminating steps; this keeps it manageable and results in flaky layers.
• Even Baking: Rotate the baking pan halfway through baking to promote even browning and prevent raw spots on your delicious Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for later enjoyment—just reheat before serving!
Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these beautiful buns to suit your taste buds!
- Different Teas: Swap out Earl Grey with your favorite flavored tea, like chai or lavender, for a unique twist.
- Citrus Zest: Use lemon or grapefruit zest instead of orange for a refreshing change. The bright, tangy notes will be delightful!
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version everyone can enjoy.
- Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the filling mix for a hint of warmth and spice. Each bite will be cozy and comforting!
- Nutty Texture: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the filling for added crunch and richness. They’ll bring a whole new dimension to these soft, sweet buns!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the sweetness by drizzling melted chocolate on top after baking; it’s a decadent touch that elevates your brunch game.
- Cream Cheese Filling: For a richer flavor, replace some of the melted butter in the filling with cream cheese to create a creamy swirl. It adds a luscious texture that’s hard to resist!
- Sweet Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to make a light glaze to drizzle over the tops for an extra sweet finish. Pair it with a cup of tea or enjoy with a slice of Pumpkin French Toast for a cozy breakfast experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the laminated dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain its quality. The filling can also be mixed ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, spread the filling, cut, and let the buns rise for about 1-2 hours. This way, you’ll have fluffy, fresh-baked morning buns with minimal effort on your busy mornings!
What to Serve with Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns
The perfect morning treat deserves equally delightful companions to create a magical breakfast spread.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve fluffy mashed potatoes on the side for a savory contrast, ensuring every bite is an adventure of flavors.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus complements the sweet and zesty buns while adding a refreshing element to your brunch table.
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Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit for a delightful texture combination that balances the richness of the buns.
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Hazelnut Coffee: The nutty flavors of hazelnut coffee enhance the tea’s notes, making each sip a comforting treat to accompany your buns.
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Herb-Infused Chèvre: Spread a bit of herbed goat cheese on warm buns for a sophisticated twist that blends creamy and citrusy flavors beautifully.
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Orange Marmalade: This sweet spread mirrors the citrus notes in the buns while providing a playful textural variation—an excellent choice for those who relish sweetness.
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Honey-Lavender Tea: Brew a soothing cup of honey-lavender tea to enhance the Earl Grey flavors, creating a serene and delightful morning experience.
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Scrambled Eggs with Chives: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and a hint of elegance, contrasting nicely with the sweet pastries while rounding out your meal.
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Chocolate Croissants: Embrace the theme of pastries! Indulge in chocolate croissants for a decadent morning that evokes a French café vibe.
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Lemonade Mimosa: Mix fresh lemonade with sparkling wine for a refreshing twist on brunch cocktails, elevating your morning with a zesty kick.
Storage Tips for Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns
Room Temperature: Keep your Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will help maintain their flaky texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you need to prolong freshness, you can refrigerate them in a container for up to 5 days, but be prepared for a slight change in texture.
Freezer: Freeze buns in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. Allow them to cool completely before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating: To enjoy the buns warm, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, bringing back that wonderful warmth and aroma!
Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for the best results?
I recommend using a combination of all-purpose flour and bread flour for the Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns. This blend provides both structure and chewiness. If you only have all-purpose flour, that will work too, just expect a slightly different texture!
How do I store leftover morning buns?
To keep your Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, though this may slightly alter their texture.
Can I freeze these morning buns?
Absolutely! Once cooled completely, freeze your Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns in a single layer on a baking sheet. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just remember to reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that delightful warmth!
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to a couple of reasons: first, ensure your yeast is fresh. If the yeast is expired, it won’t leaven the dough. Secondly, check the warmth of your rising area. A cozy spot (around 75°F to 80°F) works best—if it’s too cold, the dough may take much longer to rise.
Can I substitute Earl Grey tea leaves with another flavor?
Very much! Feel free to swap Earl Grey with another flavored tea, like chamomile or chai, for a unique twist on your morning buns. You can also use various citrus zests—such as lemon or grapefruit—creating delightful variations that suit your taste!
Are there any dietary alternatives I should consider?
If you need a vegan option for your Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use non-dairy milk alternatives. This allows everyone to enjoy these delicious pastries!
Earl Grey Citrus Morning Buns for an Irresistible Brunch treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine equal parts all-purpose and bread flour, active yeast, sugar, salt, milk, and a beaten egg. Mix until smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Spread softened butter into a rectangle (8x10 inches) on parchment paper. Fold and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle (12x24 inches). Place the butter envelope on the lower two-thirds of the dough, fold top third over the butter, and seal edges. Roll out and fold into thirds, chilling for 30 minutes after each fold.
- Mix melted butter, sugar, salt, orange zest, and Earl Grey tea leaves in a medium bowl until combined. Set aside.
- Roll out the laminated dough into a large rectangle (12x24 inches). Spread filling over surface, leaving a border. Roll tightly from one long side into a log shape.
- Slice the rolled dough into 12-15 pieces. Arrange cut side up in a greased muffin tin. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until puffed.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before rolling in reserved sugar.
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