Ingredients
• 3 cups (375g) bread flour
• 1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast or active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy and activated.
- Mix the Dough: Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the melted butter and beaten egg, continuing to mix until the dough comes together into a smooth, elastic ball.
- Knead and Rise: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a smooth, tight ball. Place the shaped buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Cover and let rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the buns have puffed up slightly.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the tops of the buns with a beaten egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) to promote a beautiful golden-brown crust. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Authentic Burger Bun Recipe