Description
Rock Buns are delightful rustic drop scones with a rough, uneven texture, studded with mixed dried fruits and flavored with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla. These easy-to-make buns have a golden, crunchy crust with a tender crumb, perfect for teatime or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Wet Ingredients and Mix-ins
- 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 to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon if using. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices.
- Incorporate the butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse breadcrumbs, which will give the buns a tender texture.
- Add sugar and dried fruit: Stir in the granulated sugar and mixed dried fruit to the breadcrumb mixture so everything is evenly combined.
- Make the dough: In a separate bowl, beat the egg and milk together along with the vanilla extract. Gradually add this to the dry mixture, stirring until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too dry and crumbly, add extra milk one tablespoon at a time to help it bind.
- Shape the buns: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. The shape should be rough and uneven, resembling rocks.
- Brush with milk: Lightly brush the tops of each bun with a little milk to help achieve a golden, shiny finish after baking.
- Bake the buns: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
- Cool and serve: Remove the buns from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is very cold to help create a flaky texture.
- You can use any mix of dried fruits you like, such as cranberries, chopped apricots, or cherries.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based milk.
- These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Brush with milk just before baking for a shiny crust; you can alternatively use a beaten egg wash for richer color.
