I. Introduction
Mary Berry, known as the nation’s favorite baker, has significantly impacted British cooking with over 70 cookbooks, including bestselling titles like Mary Berry Cooks and Mary Berry’s Baking Bible. A beloved judge on the BBC’s The Great British Bake Off, she has inspired home cooks for over four decades with her warm personality and meticulous approach. Her culinary journey began after training at Cordon Bleu in Paris, followed by her first cookbook publication in 1966. Mary has received numerous accolades for her work, including the Guild of Food Writers Lifetime Achievement Award and being appointed CBE in 2012.
The comforting nature of Mary Berry’s recipes, especially her coffee buns, makes them a popular choice among families. This guide will delve deeper into the historical context of the dish, provide nutritional information, and even offer a vegan adaptation, ensuring that her legacy continues to thrive.
II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context
Mary Berry is known for her dedication to quality ingredients, and her coffee buns exemplify this commitment. By using simple yet high-quality components, she creates a delicious treat. The roots of coffee buns can be found in traditional British baking, where the comforting scent of coffee blends beautifully with the sweetness of the bun dough.
Historical sources suggest that coffee-flavored baked goods became popular in the UK during the 19th century, coinciding with the rise of coffee houses. Mary Berry’s recipe respects this tradition while incorporating her signature touch, such as a rich coffee glaze that transforms an ordinary bun into a delightful indulgence. Her adaptations often reflect contemporary tastes while maintaining the authenticity of classic recipes.
III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients:
- 500g strong white bread flour – for a good structure
- 75g caster sugar – to add sweetness
- 10g salt – balances the sweetness
- 10g instant yeast – ensures quick rising
- 300ml milk – provides moisture; use whole milk for richness
- 50g unsalted butter – for flavor and texture; melted
- 2 large eggs – adds richness; at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules – for flavor; choose a high-quality brand
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the flavor
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Cling film
- Oven thermometer
- Cooling rack
IV. Recipe Instruction
Prepare the Dough: First of all, In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt and Make a well in the center and add the yeast. In a separate bowl, warm the milk and melted butter together until lukewarm. Pour this mixture into the well, followed by the eggs and instant coffee.
Mix and Knead: Combine the ingredients using a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms, then transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: After this, Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with cling film and let it rise in a warm place. Allow the dough to rise for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Buns: Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air and then Divide it into equal pieces (about 12). Shape each piece into a bun and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Second Rise: Cover the buns with a clean tea towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. They should puff up nicely.
Bake the Buns: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Prepare the Glaze: While the buns are baking, mix together icing sugar, instant coffee, and a splash of water until smooth.
Glaze the Buns: Once the buns are out of the oven, brush the coffee glaze over them while they are still warm.
Cool and Serve: Let the buns cool on a wire rack before serving, allowing the glaze to set.
V. Flavor Profile & Nutritional Information
The coffee buns boast a rich, sweet flavor with the comforting taste of coffee, complemented by a soft texture. Each bun offers a delightful balance of sweetness and bitterness from the coffee.
Nutritional Information (per bun):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 8g
VI. Tips for a Perfect Coffee Bun
- Troubleshooting Common Issues: If your buns don’t rise, check that your yeast is fresh and that the milk was not too hot.
- Enhancing Flavor and Texture: Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Variations: Experiment with different coffee flavors, such as espresso or mocha.
VII. Alternative (Vegan and Non-Vegan)
Vegan Coffee Buns:
Ingredients:
- Replace eggs with 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tablespoons of water (let sit for 5 minutes).
- Use plant-based milk and margarine.
Instructions: Follow the same steps as above, ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Serve the coffee buns warm with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed with a spread of butter or jam for added flavor. For a festive twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes.
X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I freeze the coffee buns? Yes, they freeze well. Simply Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
- How can I make the coffee flavor stronger? Increase the amount of instant coffee granules in the dough or glaze.
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but remember it may alter the texture slightly. Consider mixing with all-purpose flour for best results.
XI. Conclusion & Call to Action
Mary Berry’s coffee buns are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and savor the delightful blend of flavors. Share your baking adventures and feedback with us!
XII. Additional Resources
For more recipes and insights, visit Mary Berry’s official website or explore related cookbooks. For a deeper dive into the history of baked goods, check Healthy recipes
Enhance your culinary journey with Mary Berry’s expertise, and enjoy the rich tradition of British baking!
