Bunny Buns

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bunny Buns are adorable, soft, and fluffy sweet rolls shaped like little bunny rabbits—perfect for Easter celebrations or springtime gatherings. These lightly sweetened yeast buns are not only cute but also irresistibly delicious with a pillowy texture and golden crust. They’re a fun and festive addition to any brunch table, especially loved by kids and adults alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flouractive dry yeastwarm milksugarunsalted buttereggsaltvanilla extractegg wash (egg + water mixture for brushing)raisins or chocolate chips (for eyes)

directions

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.

Add the yeast mixture, butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and knead into a smooth, elastic dough.

Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions.

Form each portion into a round body, a smaller ball for the tail, and two thin ropes for the ears.

Assemble each bunny on a parchment-lined baking sheet: attach the ears, tail, and add raisin or chocolate chip eyes.

Cover and let them rise again for 20-30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brush each bunny bun with egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

Cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 bunny buns.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours

Variations

Add a bit of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy flavor.

Fill the center with jam or sweet cream cheese before baking for a surprise inside.

Dust with powdered sugar after baking for a sweeter finish.

Use colored icing pens to add extra facial features for decoration.

storage/reheating

Store Bunny Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw and warm before serving.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, just mix it directly with the dry ingredients and skip the proofing step.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape/bake the next day.

How do I keep the bunny shape while baking?
Make sure to chill the shaped buns slightly before baking and don’t over-proof them.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter substitute.

Can kids help shape the buns?
Absolutely! It’s a great hands-on activity for kids.

Do these taste like dinner rolls or sweet rolls?
They’re lightly sweetened, more like a soft milk bun or Hawaiian roll.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?
Yes, a pinch of either adds lovely warmth and aroma.

Do I need a stand mixer?
No, this dough can be kneaded by hand.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply scale up all ingredients proportionally.

What flour works best?
All-purpose flour works best for soft, tender buns.

Conclusion

Bunny Buns bring a charming and delicious touch to any festive occasion. Whether you’re baking them for Easter brunch or just to brighten someone’s day, their whimsical shape and soft, sweet flavor are sure to please. Fun to make and even more fun to eat, they’re a perfect treat for springtime smiles.

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