Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 1.5 cups of warm milk (300 ml)
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (15 grams)
• 1 tablespoon of yeast (10 grams)
• 1 teaspoon of salt (8 grams)
• 50 grams of butter (melted)
• 2 eggs (one egg for the dough, the yolk of the other for the surface)
• 4.5 cups of flour (540 grams)

For the Filling:

• 50 grams of grated cheddar cheese
• 3-4 sprigs of parsley (finely chopped)

For Greasing:

• Vegetable oil

For the Surface:

• Sesame seeds
• 1 egg yolk (reserved from earlier)

Water Glass Size: 200ml

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

• In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

2. Make the Dough:

• Add salt, butter, and one egg into the yeast mixture and stir well.
• Gradually add the flour into the mixture, stirring continuously. Once the dough begins to come together, knead it by hand or in a stand mixer until it becomes smooth and elastic. This should take about 10 minutes.
• Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

3. Prepare the Filling:

• In a small bowl, mix the grated cheddar cheese and chopped parsley. Set aside.

4. Shape the Buns:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal portions (around 10-12 balls, depending on the size you prefer).
• Flatten each dough ball with your hands or a rolling pin, creating a small disk. Place a spoonful of the cheddar cheese and parsley mixture in the center of the disk.
• Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them together to seal it. Shape the filled dough into a ball and place it on a parchment-lined baking tray, seam-side down. Repeat for all the dough balls.

5. Second Rise:

• Cover the shaped buns with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes in a warm place.

6. Prepare the Surface:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
• In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk and brush it over the surface of each bun.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top of the buns for added flavor and texture.

7. Bake the Buns:

• Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
• Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Cooking Tips:

• Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast. Aim for a temperature between 37-40°C (98-104°F).
• Filling Variations: You can experiment with different fillings such as feta cheese, spinach, or even cooked ground beef for variety.
• Kneading: Proper kneading is essential for soft, fluffy buns. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.
• Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rest and rise fully is key for the fluffiness of the buns.

Storage:

• At Room Temperature: Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: You can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days, but reheat them in the oven or microwave for the best taste and texture.
• Freezing: To freeze the buns, let them cool completely after baking, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw and bake in the oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutritional Facts (Per Bun, Approximate):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   • Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. To maintain a softer texture, try using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
2. What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
   • You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or a cheese blend of your choice.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
4. Can I skip the sesame seeds?
   • Yes, the sesame seeds add a nice crunch and flavor, but they are optional. You can also use poppy seeds or leave the surface plain.
5. How can I tell if the dough has risen enough?
   • A good way to check if the dough has risen is to press a finger lightly into it. If the indentation stays, it’s ready to use. If it springs back, give it more time to rise.

Conclusion:

Cheddar cheese and parsley buns are an easy-to-make, delicious, and versatile snack that can be enjoyed by everyone. With a soft, fluffy texture and savory cheese filling, these buns are perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re having them for breakfast, a snack, or as a side dish, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the addition of sesame seeds gives a delightful crunch that enhances the overall flavor. Try this recipe today and enjoy fresh, homemade buns that taste better than store-bought!