There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked sweet buns filling your kitchen.
Even if you are looking for a comforting snack or planning a special treat for family and friends, homemade sweet buns are a delightful choice.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of making soft, fluffy, and delicious sweet buns from scratch, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
Ingredients You Will Need
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 package (1/4 ounce) quick-rise yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, milk, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns
Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
6. Second Rise
Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up.
7. Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the buns with a little melted butter or an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve
Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Buns
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
- Warm Ingredients: Use warm milk and water to help activate the yeast.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense buns. Mix just until combined.
- Proper Rising: Allow the dough to rise fully for light and fluffy buns.
- Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even color.