Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Appearance: Shaped like adorable bunnies, these buns add a playful touch to your table setting.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with whole wheat flour and sour cream, they provide a hearty and flavorful bite.
- Versatile Pairing: Their subtle sweetness makes them suitable to accompany both sweet and savory dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups sour cream
- 5 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup water
- 5 cups whole wheat flour
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons white sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 24 whole black peppercorns
Directions
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sour cream, butter, and water. Cook until the butter has melted, then set aside to cool until lukewarm.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up.
- Mix the Dough: In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a kneading attachment, combine the whole wheat flour, eggs, sugar, and salt. Add the cooled sour cream mixture and mix at low speed, increasing to medium as a dough ball forms. If the dough is sticky, incorporate a bit more flour.
- Shape the Bunnies: Divide the dough into equal portions and form into balls. Using clean kitchen scissors, make snips to create ears, and place peppercorns to represent eyes.
- Bake: Place the shaped buns on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 12 buns
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 to 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Variations
- Flavor Enhancements: Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Sweet Touch: Drizzle a light honey or maple glaze over the buns after baking for added sweetness.
- Decorative Features: Use raisins or dried cranberries instead of peppercorns for the eyes to introduce a subtle fruity flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Place the buns in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to a month.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm buns, wrap them in aluminum foil and heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
How can I ensure the buns remain soft?
Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative.
How do I prevent the buns from spreading too much during baking?
Ensure the dough is not too warm and that the buns are spaced adequately on the baking sheet.
Can I add fillings to the buns?
Incorporating small amounts of cheese or sweet fillings is possible, but be cautious not to overfill.
Are the peppercorns safe to eat?
While edible, they are primarily decorative and can be removed before consumption.
How can I make the buns gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast breads, keeping in mind the texture may vary.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight and shape the buns before baking.
What dipping sauces pair well with these buns?
Herbed butter, honey mustard, or cream cheese spreads complement them nicely.
How can I make the buns sweeter?
Increase the sugar slightly or add a sweet glaze post-baking.
Conclusion
Easter Bunny Buns are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful visual addition to your festive table. Their versatility allows for creative variations, making them a must-try for your next celebration.
Easter Bunny Buns
These Easter Bunny Buns are an adorable and festive addition to your Easter brunch or spring gathering! Made with wholesome whole wheat flour and sour cream, they are soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for pairing with both sweet and savory dishes. Their bunny shape adds a fun and playful touch, making them a hit with kids and adults alike!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 buns
- Category: Bread, Easter Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday, Springtime
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups sour cream
- 5 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup water
- 5 cups whole wheat flour
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons white sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 24 whole black peppercorns (for eyes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients – In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sour cream, butter, and water. Heat until butter melts, then cool to lukewarm.
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the Dough – In a mixing bowl with a kneading attachment, combine flour, eggs, sugar, and salt. Add the cooled sour cream mixture and mix until a dough ball forms. If sticky, add more flour.
- Shape the Bunnies – Divide the dough into 12 portions. Roll each into a ball. Using clean kitchen scissors, snip to create bunny ears. Place peppercorns as eyes.
- Bake – Arrange buns on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve – Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Alternative Eyes: Use raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Sweeter Version: Drizzle with honey or maple glaze after baking.
- Savory Twist: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.