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Homemade Dinner Buns

Homemade Dinner Buns

Master the art of bakery-quality Homemade Dinner Buns with this easy recipe. These soft, fluffy, and tender buns are made from simple pantry staples and feature a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or alongside any meal. With straightforward steps and customizable variations, these buns bring comforting, fresh-baked goodness straight to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a variation)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm milk (approx. 110°F)
  • ¼ cup warm water (approx. 110°F)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk and water to about 110°F (warm to the touch, not hot). Stir in the sugar and sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture, beaten egg, and melted butter. Stir using a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment until the dough begins to form.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, or use a mixer with a dough hook for 5 to 6 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic, developing the gluten necessary for soft buns.
  4. First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Buns: Gently punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide into 10 to 12 even pieces and roll each into a smooth ball. Place spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped buns and allow them to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy but not overly large.
  7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Optionally, brush buns with melted butter or egg wash for a shiny crust. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden and hollow sounding when tapped underneath.
  8. Cool and Enjoy: Transfer buns to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or store properly for later use.

Notes

  • Use fresh yeast to ensure the best rise.
  • Knead just enough to develop gluten without making dough tough.
  • Proof dough in a warm, draft-free environment for consistent rising.
  • Brush buns with egg wash before baking for a glossy golden finish.
  • Brush buns with melted butter post-baking to keep them soft and flavorful.
  • Use a kitchen scale to weigh dough portions for even-sized buns.

Nutrition

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