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Gorilla Buns - Golden Crowns
Golden Crowns are a classic favorite made from soft dough balls rolled in a cinnamon-sugar-nut mixture and baked until golden brown. A great treat for brunch or an indulgent snack!
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk scalded and cooled
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 5 teaspoons yeast
- 2 large eggs well beaten
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cinnamon-Nut Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts optional
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, shortening, and salt. Heat until the milk is scalded, then remove from heat and allow it to cool to lukewarm (about 110°F/43°C). Once cooled, add eggs, yeast, and 4 cups of the flour. Stir to combine and form a soft dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.Shape the buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and let it rest for 10 minutes. Shape the dough into small balls, about the size of golf balls. Roll each ball first in melted butter, then in the cinnamon-sugar-nut mixture.Assemble: Arrange the cinnamon-sugar coated balls in a greased 9-inch angel food (Bundt) cake pan. Let the dough balls rise again for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let the buns cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Optional Toppings: If you prefer a sweeter treat, drizzle the buns with a simple glaze (made of powdered sugar and milk) right after baking.
- Alternative Pan: If you don't have a Bundt pan, you can use a 9-inch round cake pan, but the shape will be different.
- Storage: These buns are best served warm, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
