Bunny Buns

My daughter saw these in The Friend magazine and just had to have them, so we gave them a try.  They are an orange roll, but I think you could easily make them a cinnamon roll if you choose.  The kids enjoyed twisting them and putting on the tail so it did work as a family activity which is always nice.

Recipe

1 Tbls. yeast

1/4 Cup warm water

1 Cup milk, warmed but not boiling

1/3 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter or shortening

1 tsp salt

2 eggs beaten (of course only from a chicken you can trust)

1/4 cup orange juice

2 Tbls. grated orange peel

5 1/2 cups flour

Glaze

2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup hot water ( just used milk right out of the fridge), 1 tsp. butter.

Combine yeast and water, set aside while warming milk.  Then add butter and sugar to milk.  Combine all ingredients. (I would do this step different next time.  I didn't feel like there was enough orange flavor a hint but I really like to taste the flavor so next time I would combine a little sugar and zest and then when I have it rolled out would sprinkle that on I think you would get a stronger flavor that way)  Mix or knead until smooth, then let rise until doubled, about 2 hours.   Roll out on a floured surface into a rectangle approx. 14 inches high, 1/2 inch thick and then using a pizza cutter cut off rounded edges to make straight edges, set cut pieces aside to roll into balls for tails.  Then cut rectangle into 1/2 inch strips then make a small loop in center of strip and twist once or twice leaving ends out for ears.  Then place on sprayed baking sheet and place a small ball for tail in the loop.   I added cinnamon chips for eyes but you could use mini chocolate chips or any cake decoration item you choose.  Once all the dough is used cover and let rise in warm place for about and hour.  Bake at 375 for 12 to 15 min.  While still warm brush with glaze and sprinkle as desired.  I got exactly 2 dozen bunnies from this recipe.