Saint Lucy's Buns


    INGREDIENTS
    • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1 tablespoon yeast
    • 1/2 cup sugar
    • 4 ounces (1 stick) butter
    • 5 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup sugar
    • 2 large eggs, beaten
    • 1 beaten egg white for egg wash

    METHOD
    • Using a mortar and pestle, pound saffron threads to break down strands.
    • In a small saucepan, heat milk to lukewarm.
    • Mix yeast with 1/4 cup milk and 1 tablespoon sugar. Set aside.
    • On low heat, melt butter in saucepan with milk. Add crushed saffron. Let cool.
    • In large bowl, mix together flour salt and remaining sugar.
    • Stir yeast into cooled milk mixture. Mix into dry ingredients, beating to mix well. Add beaten eggs. Knead in bowl for 5 - 7 minutes. Turn onto floured board and knead another 7 - 8 minutes.
    • Put dough in lightly greased bowl, turn to coat all sides, cover and put in warm, draft-free place to rise for about 1 hour.
    • When dough has risen, knead lightly to push out air and divide into small pieces (about 10 - 12). Using the hands, roll each small piece into a strip about 8 - 10 inches long. Shape each strip into an 'S' or a figure 8. Place on lightly buttered cookie sheets.
    • Cover with clean cloth and let rise again until double in bulk, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
    • Preheat oven to 375°F.
    • When dough has risen, brush lightly with egg white. Bake in preheated 375° F
    • oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Let cool on wire rack.
    • Yield: 10 - 12 buns