Homemade Entenmann Single Serve Jumbo Iced Honey Bun Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Pastry

Introduction

Entenmann's Single Serve Jumbo Iced Honey Bun is a beloved treat that has been a staple in many households for decades. Known for its soft, fluffy texture and sweet, sticky honey icing, this pastry has captured the hearts of both kids and adults alike. The original product, made by the Entenmann's Bakery, has been a convenient option for quick breakfasts or snacks. However, many of us have wondered if we can recreate this delicious treat at home with healthier ingredients and more control over the nutritional content. This recipe not only mimics the original but also offers a healthier alternative, making it a great option for those looking to reduce sugar and artificial additives without compromising on taste.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own version of the Entenmann's Single Serve Jumbo Iced Honey Bun at home offers several benefits. For one, you can control the amount of sugar that goes into the recipe, making it a healthier option for you and your family. Additionally, homemade pastries are often more cost-effective and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences, whether that means using whole wheat flour, vegan alternatives, or other substitutions. Plus, there's the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch that tastes just as good, if not better, than the store-bought version.

Personal Anecdote

I remember growing up, the Entenmann's Single Serve Jumbo Iced Honey Bun was a special treat that my mom would occasionally pack in my lunchbox. The combination of the soft, slightly sweet bun and the drizzle of honey icing was something I looked forward to every time. As I grew older, I began to pay more attention to the ingredients and realized that while it was delicious, it wasn't the healthiest option. This led me on a mission to recreate this childhood favorite in a way that aligns with my current dietary preferences. After several trials and errors, I finally nailed down a recipe that not only tastes identical to the original but also offers a healthier twist.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:15 minutes
• **Total Time:35 minutes
• **Yield:6-8 buns

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) whole wheat flour (optional for a healthier twist)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (dairy or plant-based, such as almond or soy milk)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened applesauce (replaces some of the oil for a healthier option)
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan version)
• 1 tablespoon (15g) honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Icing:

• 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30g) honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)

Instructions

• Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for the rise of the dough.

• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour (if using), granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, egg (or flax egg), honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

• Form the Dough: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Gradually add the yeast mixture and continue mixing until the dough is smooth and elastic. Be careful not to overmix.

• Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 10-15 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

• Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly into a bun shape. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.

• Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

• Prepare the Icing: While the buns are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, honey or maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

• Glaze the Buns: Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the icing over the warm buns, allowing it to set before serving.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar in the dough and use less sweetener in the icing.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, a flax egg, and vegan-friendly sweeteners.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the flours with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the ratio as needed.

Pro Tips

• Ensure the Yeast is Activated: The frothy texture of the yeast mixture is essential for the dough to rise properly.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense bun, so mix the ingredients just until they come together.
• Let the Dough Rise: Allowing the dough to rise adequately will result in a lighter and fluffier texture.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, but you'll need to adjust the amount and activation time accordingly.
• What if the icing is too runny? Add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it.
• Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• Can I use different types of flour? Yes, but keep in mind that using 100% whole wheat flour will result in a denser bun.
• Is there a substitute for applesauce? Yes, you can use mashed banana or a little more oil as a substitute.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a breakfast treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.
• Serve as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

This homemade version of the Entenmann's Single Serve Jumbo Iced Honey Bun offers