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Chelsea Buns with Pears and Raisins

Delight in these warm, spiced Chelsea buns filled with juicy pears and plump raisins, ideal for any gathering or cozy occasion.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10 buns
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups bread flour Essential for structure, giving the buns their fluffy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor and helps control the fermentation process.
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast Aids in leavening, creating a light and airy dough.
  • 1 cup whole milk Adds creaminess and enriches the dough's flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Provides richness and moisture to the buns.
  • 1 large egg Contributes to the dough's structure and adds richness.
  • cooking as needed baking spray Prevents the buns from sticking to the baking pan.
Filling Ingredients
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Used to create a luscious layer on the dough.
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest Brightens the flavor with a fresh citrus note.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Provides sweetness and enhances the caramelization process.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth and a cozy flavor component.
  • 2 medium pears Infuses the buns with juicy sweetness.
  • 1 cup raisins Offers bursts of chewy sweetness throughout the buns.
Glaze Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup apricot jam Creates a beautiful glaze for a glossy finish.
  • 1 cup confectioners sugar Used to make the sweet glaze that tops the buns.
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest Adds a fresh element to the icing.
  • 2-3 tablespoons whole milk Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for drizzling.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine dry ingredients: Add the flour, salt, and yeast to a large mixing bowl and whisk to combine.
  2. Prepare milk and butter mixture: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter on low until the butter is melted.
  3. Cool the mixture: Allow this milk and butter mixture to cool to about 110-120 degrees F.
  4. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Pour the cooled mixture into the flour blend, then add the egg and stir until a soft dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about five minutes.
  6. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and set in a warm place to rise for one hour or until doubled in size.
Assembly
  1. Roll out the dough: Once doubled, place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll into a 12×8-inch rectangle.
  2. Prepare the filling: Brush the surface with melted butter, then sprinkle brown sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon, followed by the pears and raisins.
  3. Roll the dough: Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly, trimming uneven ends if needed, then cut into 10 equal rolls.
  4. Prepare the baking pan: Spray a large baking pan with baking spray and place the buns cut side up, spacing them appropriately.
  5. Second rise: Cover the buns loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F while buns are rising.
  2. Bake the buns: Place risen buns in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fully baked.
  3. Monitor doneness: If the buns are browning too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
  4. Cool the buns: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
Glazing
  1. Apply apricot glaze: Melt apricot jam in the microwave with a splash of water, then brush it onto the warm buns.
  2. Prepare the icing: In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners sugar, orange zest, and enough milk to create a glaze.
  3. Drizzle icing: Drizzle the icing over the cooled buns and serve.

Notes

Ensure yeast is fresh for rising. Adjust flour usage when rolling to prevent dryness. Store buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer storage.