Soft, fluffy buns filled with a rich almond custard, shaped into adorable hearts and topped with crunchy almond slices. These elegant pastries are lightly sweet, creamy in the center, and perfect for special occasions - or simply to treat yourself.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 220 g bread flour
- 50 g almond flour
- 5 g instant yeast
- 50 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 30 ml oil
- 80 ml milk (room temperature)
For the Almond Pudding Filling:
- 250 ml milk
- 1 egg
- 25 g sugar
- 25 g almond flour (powder)
- 30 g cornstarch
For Garnish:
- 50 g sliced almonds
- Milk (for brushing)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Almond Pudding:
- In a small pot, whisk or blend together all filling ingredients until smooth.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and just begins to bubble.
- Transfer the pudding to a bowl, press plastic wrap directly on the surface, and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Dough:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine all dough ingredients.
- Mix on low speed until combined, then knead on medium speed for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Transfer to a greased bowl, cover with a tea towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Heart Buns:
- Punch down the dough to release air. Transfer to a floured work surface.
- Divide into 9 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a rectangle.
- Spread a portion of the cooled almond pudding over each rectangle.
- Roll each piece into a long log and seal the seam.
- Fold the log in half and attach the ends together.
- Cut it down the middle - leaving the folded end intact.
- Twist the two cut halves together and shape them gently into a heart. Press lightly to flatten.
4. Final Proof:
- Place the shaped buns on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Loosely cover and let rise until puffy, about 30 minutes.
- Brush the tops with milk and sprinkle with almond slices.
5. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
6. Serve:
- Let the buns cool before serving.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by baking briefly or steaming lightly to restore softness.
