Apricot and Cardamom Buns
Makes 12 buns
20g dried yeast
100g caster sugar, plus a pinch
100g butter (chilled)
1/2 tsp salt
2 eggs, lightly beaten
500g plain flour
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
200g dried apricots, chopped
100g apricot jam
1. Mix yeast with 200ml warm water and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Cover the bowl and leave in a warm place to activate (approx 15 minutes). Place butter, salt, cardamom, remaining sugar and 500g flour in a mixer and combine.
2. Add eggs and activated yeast and beat until smooth. Add apricots and when combined leave in a warm spot to double in size (approx 1 hour).
3. Pre-heat oven to 190C. Knock back dough and knead until smooth. Cut into 12 pieces. Roll into balls and place on a lined baking tray so the balls just touch. Allow to prove for 30 minutes.
4. Bake for 30 minutes or until puffed and golden. Heat apricot jam with a dash of water and bring to the boil to make a glaze (this can be done in the microwave). Brush the glaze over the warm buns, and serve with butter and more apricot jam if desired.