Cornish Comfort — Golden Saffron Buns with a Heritage Twist

Few things say comfort like a warm, soft bun fresh from the oven. In Cornwall, England, those buns glow with a golden hue — thanks to one very special ingredient: saffron.

At Zarafron, we’ve reimagined the classic Cornish saffron bun, honoring its centuries-old seafaring roots and sweet, spiced charm — now with the pure flavor and color of our premium saffron.

Why You’ll Love Them

• Naturally golden from real saffron, no food coloring
• Soft, slightly sweet rolls enriched with butter and milk
• Filled with raisins or currants for a satisfying chew
• Perfect for breakfast, teatime, or spring gifting

Saffron Buns Recipe

Ingredients (makes ~12):

• 3¼ cups bread flour
• ¾ cup milk (warm)
• ¼ tsp saffron threads (20–25)
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp active dry yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup butter (softened)
• 1 egg
• ½ cup raisins or currants
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Steep saffron in warm milk for 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and spices.
3. Add saffron milk, egg, butter, and yeast. Mix and knead ~10 min.
4. Fold in raisins. Let dough rise 1–1.5 hours.
5. Shape into 12 buns. Let rise again 45 minutes.
6. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes.
7. Optional: glaze with syrup or melted butter while warm.

Pair with

Try them with clotted cream and marmalade, a warm cup of Earl Grey, or even a café latte — or keep it simple with salted butter.

A Bake Worth Passing Down

These buns aren’t just nostalgic — they’re timeless. A bite into warm saffron bread is a bite into centuries of trade, tradition, and tender baking.