Mexican Coffee Bun Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base for the dough and the topping, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the dough and the topping.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the buns.

Instant yeast: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.

Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough and topping together.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to both the dough and the topping.

Instant coffee: Dissolved in hot water, it gives the topping its distinctive coffee flavor.

When preparing the dough, ensure that the milk is warm but not hot, ideally around 110°F (43°C). This temperature activates the yeast without killing it, promoting a good rise. Additionally, when kneading the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic texture, which indicates that the gluten has developed properly. This will result in a better structure and texture for your Mexican coffee buns.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the buns denser.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture, but you may need to reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.

• instant yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast can be used, but it needs to be dissolved in warm water before adding to the dough.

• warm milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water) is a good vegan alternative.

• softened unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.

• softened unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a non-dairy alternative, though it may contain more processed ingredients.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a natural sweetness and a unique flavor, but you may need to adjust the liquid content.

• egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a binding agent and adds moisture, making it a good vegan alternative.

• instant coffee - Substitute with espresso powder: Espresso powder provides a stronger coffee flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free flour blend can be used for those with gluten intolerance, though the texture may differ.

• To keep your Mexican coffee buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 2 days.

• For longer storage, place the buns in a resealable plastic bag or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• If you want to freeze the buns, first let them cool completely. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bun, thaw it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed buns on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and the topping is slightly crisp.

• For a quicker option, you can also reheat the buns in the microwave. Place a bun on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds, or until warm.

• If you prefer a softer texture, you can brush the buns with a little milk or butter before reheating them in the oven. This will help keep them moist and tender.

• Always ensure that the buns are completely cooled before storing or freezing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Mexican coffee buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are warm and the topping is slightly crisp.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the buns on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the buns chewy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the buns in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispy topping while warming the buns evenly.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet. Heat the skillet over low heat and place the buns in it. Cover with a lid and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, ensuring they are warmed through without burning the topping.

• If you prefer a steam method, place the buns in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for about 3-5 minutes. This method keeps the buns soft and moist but may soften the topping slightly.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients and mix the dough.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and milk.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt, yeast, and instant coffee.

• Whisk: Useful for beating the egg before adding it to the dough.

• Electric mixer: Helps in beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy for the topping.

• Rubber spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl.

• Parchment paper: Used to line the baking sheet to prevent the buns from sticking.

• Baking sheet: Holds the dough balls while they rise and bake.

• Piping bag: Needed to pipe the coffee topping in a spiral pattern on the dough balls.

• Oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) for baking the buns.

• Cooling rack: Allows the buns to cool slightly before serving.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and organize flour, sugar, and other ingredients before starting.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can knead the dough more efficiently than by hand.

Room temperature butter: Ensure butter is softened to mix easily into the dough and topping.

Quick rise method: Place the dough in a warm oven (turned off) to speed up the rising process.

Pre-make topping: Prepare the coffee topping while the dough is rising to save time.

Divide dough evenly: Use a kitchen scale to ensure each dough ball is the same size for even baking.