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Homemade Dinner Buns

Homemade Dinner Buns

These Homemade Dinner Buns are soft, fluffy, and tender with a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches or as dinner sides. Made with simple pantry staples, they offer a comforting, slightly sweet and buttery flavor that elevates any meal. Easy to prepare and versatile, they can be customized for dietary preferences and themed flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk until it is about body temperature, then stir in the sugar and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix gently with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough starts to form.
  3. Knead Until Smooth: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough gently and divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath. Arrange the buns on a lined baking sheet, spacing them to allow expansion.
  6. Second Rise and Bake: Let the buns rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffed up. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Optionally, brush the tops with melted butter or egg wash for a shiny golden crust. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the buns are golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Use warm milk and melted butter to help activate the yeast and ensure easy dough mixing.
  • Proper kneading is crucial for gluten development which creates the buns’ soft and chewy texture.
  • Rising times can vary based on room temperature; look for the dough to double in size rather than relying solely on timing.
  • Avoid overcrowding the buns on the baking sheet to prevent them from sticking together during baking.
  • Applying an egg wash before baking gives the buns a shiny, golden crust; butter produces a softer finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: dinner buns, homemade bread, soft rolls, fluffy buns, sandwich buns, easy bread recipe