Nothing beats the joy of a freshly baked bun, especially when it’s paired with your favorite barbecue pulled pork or a classic hamburger. Picture this: a warm, fluffy bun holding together all those juicy flavors, soaking up the sauces and toppings, making each bite a little piece of joy.
I have fond memories of summer gatherings, grilling in the backyard, and everyone hovering around as the buns toasted on the grill. And trust me, when you have a homemade bun at the center of your spread, it elevates the meal from good to incredible!
Let’s chat about the art of bun-making. While store-bought versions serve their purpose, there’s something extra special about biting into a soft, homemade bun. They are versatile, comforting, and surprisingly easy to whip up.
This basic bun recipe is a fantastic way to kick off your baking adventures. No fancy techniques or exotic ingredients are needed here—just simple, quality components that come together to create fluffy delights.
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A basic bun recipe is a straightforward method for creating homemade buns that can be used for burgers, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on their own. These buns are soft and tender, with a light crust, making them perfect for any meal. With just a few pantry staples and some patience, you can bake your own buns that rival any bakery's.
Let’s gather our pantry staples that will come together to make these delightful buns. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 (.25 ounce) packet of active dry yeast (I recommend Fleischmann's ActiveDry Yeast)
- 1 pound all-purpose flour (or more, as needed)
- 1 cup warm water (105°F / 41°C)
- 2 large eggs, divided
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon milk (to wash the buns)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for flavor)
Ingredients From : allrecipes.com
Now we are ready to dive into the fun part—baking these buns! The process is simple and straightforward, but it requires a little love and attention. Each step is essential for achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
Start by placing the active dry yeast in the bowl of your stand mixer. Add half a cup of flour along with the warm water. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth. Allow this to sit quietly for about 10 to 15 minutes until it’s foamy. This means the yeast is alive and well, eager to create the fluffy buns we crave.
Once your yeast is happily bubbling away, add one beaten egg, melted butter, sugar, and salt to the mixture. Whisk again until these ingredients are thoroughly combined. Now it’s time to add the remaining flour, about three more cups.
Now, attach the dough hook to your stand mixer. Knead the dough on low speed until it becomes soft and just a bit sticky, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes. You might need to scrape down the sides with a silicone spatula if the dough sticks a bit too much. If large pieces stick to the spatula, add just a bit more flour until the dough comes together nicely.
Flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. It should be slightly sticky but elastic enough not to cling to your fingers. Shape the dough into a smooth, round ball. Make sure you tuck the loose ends underneath to create a neat finish.
Clean out your stand mixer bowl and drizzle some olive oil inside. Place your dough ball in the bowl and turn it a few times to coat it in oil. Cover the bowl with aluminum foil and set it in a warm spot to rise until doubled in size for about 2 hours.
After waiting patiently, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Grab your dough and gently flatten it on a floured surface to ensure any bubbles burst. Aim to form it into a rectangle that's about 5x10 inches and half an inch thick. If necessary, dust lightly with flour before cutting it into eight equal pieces.
Take each piece and form it into a round bun by gently tucking the ends beneath. Lay them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about half an inch apart.
Use your hands to gently press and flatten each round into a disc, about half an inch thick. Lightly dust the tops with flour and drape a piece of plastic wrap over the baking sheet. Allow the buns to rise again until they’ve doubled in size, taking about an hour.
While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining egg and milk until well combined. Use a fork or a pastry brush to gently coat the top of each bun with the egg wash. Be careful not to deflate your dough—be gentle! Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a little extra flair.
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake until the buns are lightly golden brown on top, which will take about 15 to 17 minutes. They may touch slightly where they meet, which is perfectly fine.
Once done, allow the buns to cool completely on the rack. You can then tear them apart and slice them in half crosswise for serving. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for the best result.
- Sticky Dough: If dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Proper Mixing: Ensure the yeast is properly activated; this step is crucial for fluffy buns.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Be patient with the rising times; both are needed for the best texture.
- Experiment: Feel free to add spices or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.
Store your buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan to keep them longer, freeze them for up to a month. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- Calories: 200
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 6g
1. Classic Burgers: Serve with your favorite beef or veggie patties.
2. Sliders: Perfect for mini sandwiches filled with pulled pork or chicken.
3. Breakfast Sandwiches: Use egg, cheese, and bacon for a delicious morning treat.
4. Soups and Stews: Enjoy alongside a hearty bowl of chili or vegetable soup.
5. Sandwiches: Fill with turkey, avocado, and greens for a fresh lunch option.
1. Whole Wheat Flour: If you prefer a heartier texture, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
2. Honey: Substitute honey for sugar for a unique flavor profile.
3. Olive Oil: Any neutral oil can work in place of olive oil, such as canola or grapeseed.
4. Dried Herbs: Adding dried oregano or basil can give a delightful herbaceous note to the buns.
5. Egg Alternatives: For a vegan option, use flaxseed eggs or applesauce instead of eggs in the dough.
Baking your own basic buns is not just a culinary activity; it’s an expression of love and creativity. With just a few ingredients you probably already have at home, you can whip up something that enhances any meal.
The satisfaction of home-baked goodness is unbeatable, and once you get the hang of it, you'll be looking for every opportunity to bake them again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious homemade buns! 🍞
Let’s chat about the art of bun-making. While store-bought versions serve their purpose, there’s something extra special about biting into a soft, homemade bun. They are versatile, comforting, and surprisingly easy to whip up.
Servings 8
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for the best result.
- Sticky Dough: If dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Proper Mixing: Ensure the yeast is properly activated; this step is crucial for fluffy buns.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Be patient with the rising times; both are needed for the best texture.
- Experiment: Feel free to add spices or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.
I’m Glennis Annis, a registered dietitian and the creator of Hearty Food Ideas. Based in Saint Louis, Missouri, I’m passionate about sharing delicious, wholesome recipes that are easy to make and packed with comfort. Through my blog, I aim to help you create hearty meals that nourish both your body and soul, bringing joy to your kitchen and table.