Description
Rock Buns are a classic British treat that are wonderfully crumbly, slightly sweet, and full of fruity goodness. With a combination of dried fruits and a crunchy, biscuit-like texture, they’re perfect for an afternoon snack or a light dessert. The simplicity and deliciousness of these buns make them a perfect homemade treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (such as currants, raisins, or sultanas)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk (plus a little extra for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Prepare the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
-
Incorporate the butter:
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
-
Add the sugar and dried fruit:
- Stir in the granulated sugar and dried fruit until evenly distributed.
-
Make the dough:
- Beat the egg and milk together in a separate bowl, then gradually add it to the flour mixture. Stir until a rough dough begins to form. If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time.
-
Shape the buns:
- Take spoonfuls of the dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The dough should be quite rough and uneven in shape – hence the name “rock buns.”
-
Brush with milk:
- Lightly brush the tops of the buns with a little milk for a golden finish.
-
Bake the buns:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and firm to the touch.
-
Cool and serve:
- Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- These buns have a rough, crumbly texture, so don’t worry if they’re not perfectly shaped.
- If you prefer, you can substitute the dried fruit for chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other dried fruits.
- Store the rock buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg