8 Dozen Buns
A versatile and hearty bread recipe that can be shaped into buns, cinnamon rolls, or donuts. Fluffy, slightly sweet, and rich with lard, it appeals to those who enjoy freshly baked treats. Perfect for family gatherings or special breakfasts, offering multiple delicious variations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in 2/3 cup warm water.
- In 2 quarts of warm water, dissolve sugar, soft lard, and salt.
- Stir in the egg, yeast mixture, and 5 cups of flour.
- Mix well and add enough flour to make a soft dough.
- Knead lightly and place in a greased pan, then let rise until double in size.
- Punch down the dough and let rise again until doubled.
- Shape the dough and place it on a greased jellyroll pan.
- Let rise until double in size, then bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- For cinnamon rolls, roll out dough into a rectangle, spread with butter or margarine, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, and add walnuts or pecans if desired.
- Roll the dough like a jellyroll and cut into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces.
- Place the pieces in a pan, let rise until double, then bake at 325°F for 25 minutes.
- To make donuts, cut circles with a hole in the middle, let rise until double, then deep fry.
- Immediately dip fried donuts in sugar or glaze after cooling briefly.
- Alternatively, take a piece about the size of a lemon, stretch it out, deep fry, and serve with butter and jelly.
- Eat the treats while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dough, ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly with warm water and sugar. If you prefer, substitute lard with unsalted butter or vegetable oil. To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until you reach the desired consistency. Remember to knead gently to keep the buns soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the buns warm, slathered with butter or your favorite jam for a delightful treat. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. Consider serving them alongside rich dishes like Corn And Bean Casserole for a comforting meal. For a sweet twist, enjoy them as cinnamon rolls or donuts with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 8 Dozen Buns contains roughly 3899 calories, with 91g protein, 791g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (184% of the Daily Value), protein (183% of the Daily Value), and calcium (96% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but there's no need to dissolve it in water first. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients, and your dough will rise well. Keep in mind that the rising times may be slightly shorter.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough isn't rising, check the temperature of your environment; it should be warm but not hot. Ensure your yeast is fresh and activated properly. If the dough still doesn’t rise after an hour, it may need more time or a warmer place. Try placing it in an oven with the light on to create a warm environment.
How can I make these buns healthier?
To make the buns healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar content or replace it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, using less lard or substituting it with a healthier fat like olive oil can also help.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).