Maw Breaker Buns

Maw-Breaker Buns are a delightful and unique treat that combines the richness of cheese curd with the lightness of a bun. Made with ewe’s milk or goat milk, these buns have a tender texture and a subtle hint of lemon zest. The addition of cheese curd gives them a creamy and savory flavor that sets them apart from traditional bread rolls.

These buns are not only delicious but also fun to make. The process starts with preparing the cheese curd by separating the curds and whey from the warmed milk using rennet. Once the curd is drained, it is combined with flour, yeast, lemon zest, and eggs to form a dough. After baking in the oven, the buns emerge with a golden crust and a delightful aroma.

Serves 16

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 quarts ewe’s milk or goat milk
• 1 teaspoon liquid rennet or 1 tablet
• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 2 tablespoons dry yeast
• Zest of 1 lemon, grated
• 8 eggs
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. First, prepare the cheese curd. Warm the milk to around 90°F, being careful not to scald it. You can heat it in a double boiler or in the microwave in small increments, stirring it back into the rest of the milk to warm it up.
2. Stir the rennet into the milk and let it sit undisturbed until the curds and whey separate. This may take about an hour or more.
3. Line a large sieve with doubled cheesecloth or muslin and drain the cheese curd.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F.
5. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, lemon zest, eggs, and cheese curd. Knead the mixture well to incorporate all the ingredients.
6. Divide the dough into 12-ounce portions and shape them into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with buttered parchment paper.
7. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
8. Remove the buns from the oven and reduce the temperature to 275°F. Using scissors, make a cross-shaped cut on the top of each bun.
9. Return the buns to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
10. Allow the buns to cool slightly, then sprinkle them with confectioners’ sugar.
11. Serve the Maw-Breaker Buns and enjoy!

Serving these Maw-Breaker Buns is a joy. They can be enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. The buns can be lightly dusted with confectioners’ sugar for a touch of sweetness. They make a delightful addition to breakfast or brunch spreads, and they can also be enjoyed as a special treat for afternoon tea.

Whether you’re looking for a unique homemade bread recipe or wanting to explore different flavors and textures, Maw-Breaker Buns are sure to impress. Get ready to indulge in the delightful combination of cheese curd and a soft, flavorful bun that will leave you craving for more.