Delicious Jam and Custard Buns to Elevate Your Baking Game
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team
There s nothing quite like the feeling of taking a warm, freshly baked bun out of the oven, the sweet aroma of vanilla and cardamom filling your kitchen. When I first bit into a jam and custard bun, I was transported to a cozy café where every bite felt like a warm embrace. These delightful little treats not only look impressive but are also incredibly easy to make, allowing you to indulge without the fuss.
I discovered this recipe during a weekend baking spree, searching for a way to use up the ripe sourdough starter sitting in my fridge. With layers of soft, milky bread enveloping rich pastry cream and a pop of fruity jam, it quickly became a family favorite. Whether you re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a comforting afternoon treat, these buns are versatile enough to satisfy any craving.
Grab your apron and unleash your creativity as we dive into the world of these sweet and fluffy jam and custard buns. The joy of homemade baking awaits!
Why are Jam and Custard Buns so irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe combines straightforward methods with ingredients you likely already have at home.
Delicious Flavor: The luscious pastry cream paired with vibrant jam creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and richness.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these buns cater to any craving!
Time-Effective: Despite the chilling time, they come together quickly, meaning less kitchen hassle for you.
Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown tops and inviting jam centers make these buns a showstopper at any gathering.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you re a seasoned chef or a baking novice, these buns will surely impress family and friends. Enjoy a delightful baking experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Jam and Custard Buns Ingredients
Discover the essential components to make your own delightful Jam and Custard Buns!
For the Dough
- All purpose flour 25 g for a tender texture in the buns.
- Buttermilk 100 g adds moisture and a tangy note.
- Egg 50 g (about 1 large) enhances richness and binds the dough.
- Ripe sourdough starter 50 g brings flavor and helps with leavening.
- Granulated sugar 55 g balances the flavor while aiding browning.
- Nonfat milk powder 21 g increases creaminess and structure.
- Kosher salt 7 g elevates all the flavors in the bread.
- Instant yeast 5 g for a quick rise and soft crumb.
- Bread flour 225 g provides strength for the dough structure.
- Spelt flour 75 g introduces a nutty flavor and more nutrients.
- Ground cardamom Seeds from 8 pods (optional) adds a warm, aromatic note.
For the Pastry Cream
- Unsalted butter 56 g (4 Tbsp), at room temperature for a smooth, luxurious cream.
- Granulated sugar 65 g sweetens the cream to perfection.
- Cornstarch 30 g thickens the cream for ideal consistency.
- Kosher salt 1/4 tsp to enhance the sweetness.
- Whole egg 75 g (about 1 1/2 large) helps set the pastry cream.
- Whole milk 360 g ensures a rich, creamy texture.
- Unsalted butter 21 g, cold and cubed for a velvety finish.
- Vanilla extract 1 1/2 tsp for that classic, sweet aroma.
For the Streusel Topping
- All purpose flour 50 g creates a crumbly, delicate topping.
- Granulated sugar 40 g sweetens the streusel layer.
- Kosher salt 1/4 tsp to balance flavors in the topping.
- Unsalted butter 40 g, cold and cubed for that perfect crunch.
For Assembly
- Thick jam or preserves ~60 g adds a burst of fruity flavor and color.
- Egg wash remaining egg from the pastry cream, mixed with a splash of milk for a shiny finish.
With these ingredients, you re ready to create your own Jam and Custard Buns that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also elevate your baking game! Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome.
How to Make Jam and Custard Buns
Make the Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk together the all-purpose flour and buttermilk until smooth. Cook over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened. Transfer to a bowl to cool.
Combine Ingredients: Whisk the cold buttermilk into the cooled tangzhong, then stir in the egg and sourdough starter. Gradually mix in the remaining dough ingredients, except for the butter, until just combined.
Knead the Dough: Knead the mixture on medium-low speed for about 7 minutes until the gluten is developed. Cover and let the dough rest for 5 minutes.
Incorporate Butter: Gradually add in the butter, one tablespoon at a time, making sure each batch is fully incorporated before adding the next. Knead until the dough passes the windowpane test, roughly 10 minutes later.
Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled container. Cover it and let it refrigerate for 8 to 24 hours this will enhance the flavor!
Prepare Tart Rings: Lightly grease ten 4-inch tart rings and arrange them on a baking sheet. Divide the chilled dough into 10 equal pieces, rounding each into a ball. Let rest for 10 minutes.
Shape the Buns: Roll each piece of dough into a circle measuring 4.5-5 inches. Press it into the tart ring, ensuring the border is no thicker than 1/2 inch.
Proof the Dough: Cover the shaped dough and let it proof at room temperature until puffy, around 60 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400 °F.
Add Toppings: Brush the tops of the dough with the egg wash. Pipe or spoon about 45-50 g of pastry cream into each bun and add a dollop of jam centers. Finish by sprinkling with streusel topping.
Bake: Bake the buns for about 15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before gently removing the tart rings.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Jam and Custard Buns Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists that will make these buns uniquely yours!
Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with a bit of vinegar for a gentle tang.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for gluten-free buns that everyone can enjoy.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the dough to create a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
Fruit-Filled: Replace the jam with fresh fruit compote or apple filling for a delightful fruity surprise inside.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in chocolate chips into the pastry cream for a decadent chocolate jam and custard experience.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in a handful of chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the dough for added texture and flavor.
Layered Delight: Instead of a single layer of pastry cream, create layers with both jam and cream swirled together for a truly indulgent treat.
Savory Twist: Mix in finely chopped herbs, like rosemary or thyme, into the dough for a savory version that s perfect for brunch.
Unleash your inner chef and let these variations inspire new culinary adventures!
How to Store and Freeze Jam and Custard Buns
Room Temperature: Keep your jam and custard buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavors.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, place the buns in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months, preserving their deliciousness for later enjoyment!
Reheating: To enjoy your buns warm, reheat them in the oven at 350 °F for about 10 minutes. This step brings back that fresh out-of-the-oven goodness!
Expert Tips for Jam and Custard Buns
Perfect Dough Temperature: Use cold ingredients straight from the fridge while preparing your dough. This helps to control fermentation, leading to a soft texture in your buns.
Knead to Success: Avoid under-kneading the dough ensure it passes the windowpane test for the best rise. This key step helps create that fluffy crumb you desire.
Chill Time Matters: Don t rush the chilling process! The longer you let the dough rest in the fridge (up to 24 hours), the richer the flavor and better the texture.
Egg Wash Perfection: For a glossy finish, apply the egg wash gently to avoid deflating the proofed dough. This will enhance the buns visual appeal and crust come baking time.
Customize Your Jam: Experiment with different jam flavors for a delightful twist on the classic jam and custard buns. Your creative combinations can surprise and delight you!
What to Serve with Jam and Custard Buns?
Nothing complements these delightful buns quite like the perfect sides and pairings that enhance their sweetness and texture.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries adds a beautiful contrast to the rich pastry cream.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm buns, creating a luxurious dessert experience that s hard to resist.
- Savory Cheese Platter: Creamy brie or tangy goat cheese provide a delightful balance to the sweetness. Serve with a drizzle of honey for an elevated pairing.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea offers a soothing touch, enhancing the floral notes of cardamom in your buns.
- Lemon Curd: Spread a layer of zesty lemon curd inside for a zippy surprise that complements the jam perfectly.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate the flavor profile and add richness.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing homemade sparkling lemonade pairs beautifully, cutting through the sweetness for a breathtaking flavor combination.
These pairings will not only enhance your Jam and Custard Buns but will also create a delightful spread that s sure to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Jam and Custard Buns are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; this enhances the flavor and makes for easy baking when you re ready to enjoy. Simply follow the first five steps of the recipe, then shape the dough into balls and refrigerate them. To maintain quality, ensure the dough is tightly covered so it doesn t dry out. When ready to bake, complete the proofing, add the pastry cream and jam, then bake as directed. With a little advance prep, you ll have deliciously warm buns ready to impress with minimal effort!
Jam and Custard Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for my buns?
Absolutely! When choosing your buttermilk, look for a fresh, slightly tangy aroma. For the sourdough starter, it should be bubbly and at its peak rise, indicating it s ready to impart its glorious flavor. Eggs should be fresh and, ideally, left at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
What is the best way to store leftover buns?
Very easy! If you re keeping your jam and custard buns at room temperature, just place them in an airtight container where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then store in the fridge this will last about a week!
Can I freeze my buns?
Absolutely! To preserve that fresh-baked goodness, wrap each bun in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They ll retain their delicious flavors for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in an oven preheated to 350 °F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my dough doesn t rise?
Don t worry, it happens! If your dough isn t rising after mixing, ensure that your yeast is fresh and active. If your dough gets too warm during kneading, this can also affect rising, so always ensure your ingredients, especially buttermilk, are cold. Lastly, check the environment where it s proofing; a warm and humid spot works best.
Are these buns suitable for those with allergies?
Be careful! While the recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (in flours) and dairy (in buttermilk and butter), you can make some adjustments. For a dairy-free version, try using nut or oat milk instead of buttermilk and a plant-based butter alternative. For gluten-free needs, you might explore a gluten-free flour blend, although it may change the texture slightly.
How can I prevent my buns from drying out?
To keep your jam and custard buns moist, ensure they re properly stored in an airtight container. If you plan to eat them over several days, consider wrapping them in a damp paper towel before placing them in the container. This trick keeps them soft and fluffy!