Fluffy Milk Buns Recipe

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Fluffy Milk Buns Recipe

If you love soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread, these homemade milk buns are a must-try! Made with simple ingredients like flour, milk, eggs, and butter, these buns are perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or a side for your favorite meal. The recipe follows traditional yeast bread-making techniques to ensure a pillowy texture and rich taste.

History of Milk Buns

Milk buns have origins in various cultures, from Japanese Hokkaido milk bread to European brioche-like bread. The addition of milk and butter creates a rich, tender crumb, while the yeast ensures a soft and airy structure. These buns are beloved worldwide, often served with jam, butter, or even used for sliders and sandwiches.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 egg
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp yeast (instant or active dry)
  • 180 ml (¾ cup) warm milk
  • 40 g (2 tbsp) butter, softened
  • 400 g (2.5 cups) all-purpose flour

For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. Warm the milk (not too hot, around 38–40°C / 100°F).
  2. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive, so use fresh yeast.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, and yeast mixture.
  2. Gradually add the flour while mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Add softened butter and knead the dough until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook).

Step 3: First Rise

  1. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap.
  2. Let it rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Buns

  1. Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface.
  2. Divide it into equal portions (8–10 pieces). Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
  3. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.

Step 5: Second Rise

  1. Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Baking

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Brush the buns with an egg wash (mix egg yolk with milk).
  3. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.
  4. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving & Enjoyment

These buns are best enjoyed fresh and warm. They pair well with butter, jam, honey, or even as sandwich buns. You can also fill them with cream, chocolate, or custard for a delightful treat!

Lovers of Milk Buns

Milk buns are adored by bread lovers across the world! They are popular in Asian bakeries, European kitchens, and American households. Their soft and slightly sweet nature makes them irresistible to both kids and adults.

Conclusion

Baking fluffy milk buns at home is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create bakery-quality bread that everyone will love. Try this recipe and let the aroma of freshly baked buns fill your kitchen!

Would you like variations of this recipe, like stuffed milk buns or a sweeter version? Let me know! Happy baking!

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