Description
These Bunny Buns are the cutest and most delicious way to celebrate Easter! Soft, fluffy, and shaped like little bunnies, these sweet buns are perfect for both kids and adults. The dough is simple to make and bakes into a golden, tender treat. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch or just looking for a fun activity, these bunny-shaped buns will make your holiday extra special!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
- Raisins or chocolate chips (for eyes)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough starts to form. If you’re using cinnamon, add it here too.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 even pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. For each bunny, take one ball for the body and a smaller piece for the head. Attach the head to the body by pinching the dough together. Create bunny ears by rolling two small pieces of dough into ovals and placing them on top of the head.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped bunny buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Beat the remaining egg and milk together and brush it onto the buns for a golden finish.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Let the buns cool slightly. Once cooled, use raisins or chocolate chips for the eyes, and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: You can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
- Storage: Store leftover buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bunny bun
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg