Granny Buns
Soft, fluffy Granny Buns are traditional yeast rolls with a slightly sweet and rich flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a comforting side for family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the active dry yeast, warm water, sugar, salt, and flour until smooth.
- Cover and let stand in a warm place for 15 minutes.
- Scald the milk and then cool it to warm temperature.
- Add the warm milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 cups flour, and 3 tablespoons shortening to the yeast mixture.
- Beat for 2 minutes with a mixer.
- Gradually stir in about 3 1/2 cups flour to form a very stiff dough.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/2 inch thickness and fold in half.
- Repeat the rolling and folding process 4 more times.
- Divide the dough in half.
- Cover with a bowl and let rest for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough. If you’re out of active dry yeast, you can substitute with instant yeast, using the same amount. Ensure your warm water is between 100-110°F for optimal yeast activation. Remember to knead the dough well for a soft texture, similar to what you might find in my favorite coconut pie.
Serving Suggestions
Granny Buns are delightful on their own but can be served with butter and jam for a tasty breakfast treat. They pair beautifully with Kathy's Pineapple Casserole as a side dish for brunch. Consider adding a fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing complement, or enjoy them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Granny Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until they are soft and fluffy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny Buns contains roughly 258 calories, with 11g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 675mg per serving (29% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in denser buns. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose if you want a lighter texture, and adjust based on your preference.
How can I tell if my yeast is active?
To check if your yeast is active, mix it with warm water and sugar and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. If it becomes frothy and bubbly, your yeast is good to use. If not, you may need to purchase new yeast.
What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of your Granny Buns by mixing in ingredients like vanilla extract, lemon zest, or even a handful of raisins or nuts. These additions can elevate the taste and make your buns even more delicious.
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).