Soft and Pillowy Hamburger Buns Recipe: A Game-Changer for Your Next BBQ
There’s something magical about biting into a burger with a bun that’s as soft and pillowy as a cloud. If you've ever been let down by dense, dry buns, get ready to change the game with this ultimate hamburger bun recipe. These buns are so tender and flavorful, they’ll take your burgers from good to unforgettable. The best part? You can make them at home, and it’s easier than you think. Let’s dive in!
Why These Buns Are a Must-Try
The secret to these soft hamburger buns is the combination of ingredients and techniques designed to lock in moisture and create that perfect texture. By swapping milk powder for whole milk, we’re adding richness and softness that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a full-blown BBQ, these buns will make your burgers (and you) the star of the show.
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these bakery-style buns:
Flour: 463g
Yeast: 14g
Sugar: 40g
Salt: 9g
Melted Butter: 50g
Whole Milk: 255g (warmed to lukewarm, about 37°C/98°F)
One Large Egg
Sesame Seeds (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix It Up
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lukewarm whole milk, melted butter, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
2. Knead to Perfection
Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, this is its time to shine. Kneading builds the structure you need for that perfect rise.
3. Let It Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This step is key to achieving that soft texture.
4. Shape Your Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8–10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each bun to allow for expansion.
5. Proof Again
Cover the buns loosely with a damp towel and let them rise again for another 1–1.5 hours, or until they’re beautifully puffy.
6. Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the tops of the buns with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of milk or water) for a shiny finish, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
7. Bake
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake the buns for 15–18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and smell like heaven.
8. Butter Them Up
As soon as you pull the buns out of the oven, brush them with melted butter for an extra-soft crust and that irresistible bakery-style finish.
Storage Tips
Here’s how to keep your buns fresh and soft:
Short-Term (1–2 days): Let the buns cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry them out.
Freezing (Up to 3 months): Wrap each bun in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.
These soft, pillowy buns are the perfect canvas for any burger, from a classic beef patty to a gourmet veggie creation. They’re light yet sturdy enough to hold all your toppings without falling apart. Trust us—once you make these, you’ll never go back to store-bought buns.
Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to share your burger masterpieces with us on Instagram using #HungerHugsBakes. Happy baking!
