Indulge your senses with a delightful fusion of flavors in these Cocoa Steamed Buns and Dried Cranberry Buns! Perfectly soft and fluffy, these delectable treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of Chinese culinary tradition to your kitchen. Imagine biting into a warm, chocolatey bun, only to discover the surprise of tangy dried cranberries bursting with flavor—it's a match made in heaven! Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to embark on a delicious adventure? Let's dive into the world of cocoa-infused goodness!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 10 buns
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and sugar to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.
- Dissolve the instant yeast in warm water (approximately 110°F/43°C), allowing it to activate for 5 minutes until it becomes slightly foamy.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast mixture and vegetable oil.
- Knead the dough thoroughly for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly glossy. The dough should spring back when pressed.
- Cover the dough with a clean, damp kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for 30-40 minutes until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and fold in the dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Divide the dough into 10 equal portions and shape each into a smooth, round bun.
- Place each bun on a small square of parchment paper to prevent sticking during steaming.
- Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a gentle boil and lining the steamer basket with parchment or cabbage leaves.
- Arrange the buns in the steamer, leaving space between them to allow for expansion.
- Steam the buns over medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes until they are puffy and fully cooked.
- Remove the steamer from heat and let the buns rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to prevent deflation.
- Serve warm and enjoy the rich cocoa flavor with sweet bursts of dried cranberries.
Tips
- Measure Accurately: For the best results, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour and cocoa powder. Too much flour can lead to dense buns, while too little may affect the texture.
- Activate Yeast Properly: Make sure your warm water is at the right temperature (around 110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast effectively. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, resulting in flat buns.
- Kneading Technique: Knead the dough thoroughly for 8-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the buns their fluffy texture.
- Resting Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the bowl in an oven with the light on to create a warm environment.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Steamer: When placing the buns in the steamer, ensure there’s enough space between them. They will expand while cooking, and overcrowding can lead to uneven steaming.
- Check for Doneness: The buns are ready when they are puffy and have a slight sheen. You can also gently press the top; it should spring back when cooked.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these buns warm for the best experience. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making for a perfect afternoon treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
