Description
These Za’atar Buns are soft, aromatic Middle Eastern bread rolls infused with a flavorful za’atar spice blend and olive oil. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they are best enjoyed warm and pair beautifully with labneh or hummus.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
Za’atar Filling
- ½ cup za’atar spice blend
- ¼ cup olive oil (for filling)
Topping
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add warm water, ¼ cup olive oil, and plain yogurt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten and ensures a soft texture.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 to 1½ hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Za’atar Mixture: While the dough is rising, mix the za’atar spice blend with ¼ cup olive oil in a small bowl to form a fragrant paste.
- Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece out into a small rectangle, spread each with a spoonful of the za’atar mixture, then roll tightly like a cinnamon roll.
- Second Rise: Place the buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise again for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare for Baking: Lightly brush the tops of the buns with olive oil and sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake the buns for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the buns cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and pair perfectly with labneh or hummus.
Notes
- Serve these buns warm for the best flavor and texture.
- They pair wonderfully with Middle Eastern dips like labneh or hummus.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently in a low oven or an air fryer to restore softness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
