Crispy Mocha Buns with Rich Coffee Aroma
Easy Homemade Mocha Buns – A Beloved Pastry for All Ages
These mocha buns are a delightful treat, loved by both children and adults for their irresistibly crispy topping and fluffy interior. The aromatic coffee scent wafting from the oven as they bake is simply heavenly. Perfect with a cup of coffee or as a special snack for kids, this recipe will guide you through creating these delicious buns in your own kitchen with ease.
Dough Ingredients- 150g Bread flour (high-gluten flour)
- 13g Sugar
- 2g Salt
- 3g Instant dry yeast
- 50g Frozen blueberries (optional, for a unique twist)
- 25g Heavy cream (for added richness)
- 43g Water
- 15g Unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
Mocha Topping Ingredients- 35g Unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
- 30g Powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 30g Fresh egg (about 1/2 an egg, beaten well)
- 1/2 Tbsp Instant coffee granules
- 1 Tsp Hot water
- Cake flour (sifted)
- 35g Unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
- 30g Powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 30g Fresh egg (about 1/2 an egg, beaten well)
- 1/2 Tbsp Instant coffee granules
- 1 Tsp Hot water
- Cake flour (sifted)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a bread machine, combine all dough ingredients except for the butter. Select the dough cycle and let it run until the dough is well-formed. Add the softened butter and continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. Once the dough cycle is complete, proceed with the first proofing. After the first proof, divide the dough into portions of approximately 47-48g each. Gently round each piece into a ball. Cover them with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let them rest for 15 minutes. This resting period, known as bench rest, allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to shape.
Step 2
After the bench rest, gently degas the dough balls by pressing them down slightly. Reshape them into smooth balls. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring there is enough space between each bun as they will expand during baking. Parchment paper will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3
Allow the dough balls to undergo their second proofing in a warm place until they have doubled in size. This usually takes about 40 minutes to an hour. You can use your oven’s proofing function or place a bowl of warm water in the oven alongside the dough to create a humid environment. To check if the proofing is complete, gently poke the dough with a floured finger; if the indentation slowly springs back, it’s ready.
Step 4
While the dough is proofing, prepare the mocha topping. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the sifted powdered sugar and mix well until thoroughly combined with the butter, forming a paste.
Step 5
Gradually add the beaten egg to the butter-sugar mixture while whisking rapidly. It’s important to mix quickly to prevent the mixture from separating. Continue whisking until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 6
In a small separate bowl, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the hot water to create a concentrated coffee paste. Add this coffee mixture to the cream mixture and stir until well combined, infusing the topping with a delicious coffee flavor. Ensure it’s evenly mixed.
Step 7
Sift the cake flour into the coffee cream mixture. Gently fold the flour into the cream using a spatula, mixing just until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough topping. The goal is a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 8
Transfer the mocha topping mixture into a piping bag fitted with a plain round tip (about 0.5cm in diameter). If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
Step 9
Once the dough has completed its second proof, pipe the mocha topping onto the top of each bun in a circular or swirling pattern. Ensure the topping covers a good portion of the bun’s surface. Piping a generous layer will ensure a satisfyingly crispy texture after baking.
Step 10
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the buns are fully baked. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. The enticing aroma of coffee will fill your kitchen as they bake!
Step 11
Enjoy these delicious mocha buns fresh from the oven! They are best served warm, offering a wonderful contrast between the crispy topping and the soft, airy crumb. The subtle coffee flavor is truly delightful. Pair them with a glass of milk or your favorite coffee for a perfect treat. Your family, especially the kids, will surely love these homemade delights!
