‘Baking Easter Fun’

Ingredients:
3-1/2 to 4 cups flour
1 cup warm milk (45°C)
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast 
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp salt
1 large egg
1 egg (for egg wash)
Black sesame seeds or raisins (for eyes)
METHOD:
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 mins until it becomes frothy.
Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 mins until it is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Roll each ball into an oval shape. Use scissors to snip two small ears at the top of each oval. Place the shaped buns on a greased baking tray lined with baking paper.
Cover the buns with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 mins.
Preheat your oven to 190°C. Brush the buns with the beaten egg to give them a shiny finish. Press black sesame seeds or small pieces of raisins into the dough to create eyes.
Bake the buns for 12-15 mins, or until they are golden brown.
Let the buns cool on a wire rack before serving. 

These will make a statement on the Easter table.