Description
Easter Bunny Buns are adorable, fluffy, and lightly sweetened treats perfect for Easter celebrations. Shaped like bunnies, these soft buns can be flavored with vanilla, citrus zest, or cinnamon and served with butter, jam, or honey.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- Raisins or chocolate chips (for eyes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- Combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled.
- Shape the Bunny Buns
- Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into an oval shape for the body.
- Use scissors or a knife to cut two small slits at one end for ears. Shape slightly.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press a raisin or chocolate chip into each bun for eyes.
- Bake the Buns
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix egg yolk and 1 tablespoon milk for egg wash and brush over buns.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest.
- Chocolate Buns: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and increase sugar slightly.
- Spiced Buns: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Glazed Buns: Drizzle with powdered sugar and milk icing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- rising time: 1–1.5 hours
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Category: Bread, Holiday Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-inspired
Keywords: Easter buns, bunny-shaped bread, sweet bread, holiday baking, festive treats