Description
These Bunny Buns are soft, fluffy sweet rolls shaped like adorable bunnies, perfect for festive occasions or a fun treat. Made with a rich yeast dough and filled with cinnamon, brown sugar, and optional chocolate chips, then baked to golden perfection and lightly glazed with a simple icing for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Topping
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for icing, optional)
- 1 tbsp milk (for icing, optional)
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir to dissolve the yeast, then let sit for about 5 minutes or until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix dough ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Add the activated yeast mixture and vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing well until the dough forms a cohesive ball.
- Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Roll out dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 12 by 18 inches.
- Prepare filling and spread: Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top. If using, scatter chocolate chips over the filling.
- Roll and cut dough: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal-sized pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Shape bunny buns: Take each piece and roll it into a ball. For each ball, cut two small slits at the top to form ‘bunny ears,’ then pinch the sides together to shape the bunny’s body and head.
- Second rise: Place the shaped buns on the prepared baking dish, leaving adequate space between them. Cover with a clean towel and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Apply egg wash: Beat the remaining egg with a splash of water to make an egg wash. Brush this gently over the buns to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
- Bake buns: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare icing (optional): While the buns bake, mix the powdered sugar and milk together to create a simple glaze for drizzling over the buns after baking.
- Cool and serve: Allow the buns to cool slightly before optionally drizzling the icing over the tops. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use freshly activated yeast and ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Chocolate chips are optional but add a nice touch of sweetness and texture to the filling.
- Keep an eye on buns while baking to prevent overbrowning.
- These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- The icing is optional and can be omitted for a less sweet finish.
- Try adding raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for variation.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
