Kathryn'S Buns
Soft, fluffy buns with a hint of sweetness and richness, perfect for breakfast or snacks, suitable for family gatherings or casual tea times.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix half a cup of very warm water with two packages of yeast and set aside for ten minutes.
- Beat the remaining ingredients—warm water, sugar, salt, eggs, and soft shortening—with an electric mixer.
- Add the yeast water mixture to the beaten ingredients and beat again.
- Gradually add 4 to 5 cups of flour, mixing until the dough isn't sticky.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough stand for 20 to 30 minutes to rise.
- Shape the dough into loaves or rolls as desired.
- Let the shaped dough double in size, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, ensure your yeast is fresh by checking its expiration date. If you want a richer flavor, consider using milk instead of water. You can substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. To achieve a golden crust, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter before baking. This recipe is versatile and pairs beautifully with Wanda'S Favorite Pound Cake.
Serving Suggestions
These buns are perfect for sandwiches or as a side to soups and salads. Consider serving them with butter or your favorite jam for breakfast. They also pair wonderfully with hearty dishes like stews or chili. For a delightful treat, serve alongside Chocolate Kissed Thumbprint Cookies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag for up to three months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kathryn'S Buns contains roughly 664 calories, with 6g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1338mg per serving (58% 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
Why did my buns not rise properly?
If your buns didn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure the water used to activate the yeast is warm, not hot, as temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can kill the yeast. Also, make sure to give the dough enough time to rise in a warm, draft-free environment.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and rise before shaping and baking as directed.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour at once, as this can lead to dense buns. Kneading properly will also help improve the dough's texture.
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).