Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Tray

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together 250g (2 cups) self-raising flour and 50g (¼ cup) caster sugar.
2. Rub the butter into the flour mixture using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg and mix it with 100ml (⅓ cup) milk and 1 tsp vanilla extract (if using).
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture and stir with a fork or your hands until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

1. Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a long log shape.
2. Cut the dough into 12 equal portions.
3. Take each portion, flatten it slightly, and place 1 fresh raspberry in the center.
4. Gently roll the dough around the raspberry to form a ball, sealing the fruit inside.
5. Place the dough balls, seam side down, on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each bun.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Brush the tops of the buns with a little milk using a pastry brush.
2. Sprinkle each bun with a pinch of caster sugar.

Step 5: Bake the Buns

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and risen.
2. Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the raspberry buns warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect on their own or with a cup of tea!