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Newfoundland Molasses Raisin
blankChef Neyma

Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Tea Buns

Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Tea Buns are soft, lightly sweet biscuits made with fancy molasses, warm spices, and plump raisins. A beloved East Coast treat, they’re perfect for pairing with tea and bring cozy, nostalgic flavor in every bite.
Servings:12 buns
Cuisine:canadian

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder heaping
  • 1 tsp baking soda heaping
  • 2 tsp cinnamon optional but recommended
  • 1 tsp ground nutmeg optional
  • ¾ cup cold butter cut into cubes
  • cups raisins
  • ½ cup fancy molasses
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Cut in the butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the dry mix until crumbly.
  4. Add the raisins: Stir them into the flour mixture so they’re evenly distributed.
  5. Make the wet mixture: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the molasses, milk, and vanilla extract.
  6. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Roll and cut: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1-inch thickness and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or drinking glass.
  8. Bake: Place buns on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart. Bake for about 30 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden.
  9. Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with butter.

Notes

Tips for the Best Tea Buns

  • Use fancy molasses only: Avoid blackstrap or cooking molasses — it’s too strong and bitter.
  • Don’t skip the spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring cozy warmth that really complements the molasses.
  • Keep the butter cold: Cold butter helps the dough stay light and fluffy.
  • Try variations: Not a fan of raisins? Swap them for dried cranberries or blueberries. Soak dried fruit in warm water if needed to soften.