Soft and Fluffy Sesame Seed Buns

These golden, homemade sesame seed buns are soft, fluffy, and perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or as a side to any meal. Their lightly sweet and buttery flavor makes them a versatile addition to your table.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 1 hour (including rising time)
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
    • 400 ml warm milk (1 ¾ cups)
    • 200 ml warm water (¾ cup + 2 tablespoons)
    • 40 g sugar (3 tablespoons)
    • 11 g dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
    • 100 ml vegetable oil (7 tablespoons)
    • 1 chicken egg
    • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
    • 950 g flour (7 ½ cups, plus extra for dusting)
  • For Brushing:
    • 1 egg yolk
    • 1 tablespoon milk
  • For Topping:
    • White sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir well until the yeast dissolves. Let it rest for 5 minutes until frothy.
  • Add vegetable oil and the egg to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
  • Add salt and sift in the flour gradually while mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rest the Dough

  • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
  • Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a ball.
  • Place the dough balls on a floured baking sheet. Lightly dust with flour and cover with cling film.
  • Let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

  • Roll out each dough ball on a floured surface to a diameter of 37 cm (14.5 inches) and a thickness of 0.7–1 cm (¼–⅜ inch).
  • Layer the rolled dough and roll out slightly more to a diameter of 40 cm (15.75 inches).
  • Use a bowl (11 cm diameter) or a cutter to cut out buns from the dough. Arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  • Cover the buns with cling film and let them rise for another 20–30 minutes in a warm place.

Step 4: Bake the Buns

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Mix the egg yolk with milk and brush the tops of the buns with the mixture.
  • Sprinkle with white sesame seeds.
  • Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

  • Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

  • Use these buns for hamburgers or sliders.
  • Pair with soups or stews as a side.
  • Enjoy with butter and jam for breakfast or as a snack.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the yeast is active by checking for froth after resting in the milk mixture.
  • For softer buns, cover them with a clean kitchen towel immediately after baking.
  • Store leftover buns in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Milk: Adds protein and calcium.
  • Sesame Seeds: Rich in healthy fats and minerals like calcium and magnesium.
  • Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian
  • Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.

Nutritional Facts (Per Bun – Approx. 10 Buns):

  • Calories: 240
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 2 g

Storage

  • Store buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple, wholesome ingredients with no preservatives.
  • Soft and fluffy texture, perfect for any meal.
  • Versatile—ideal for burgers, sandwiches, or as dinner rolls.
  • Can be made ahead and frozen for later use.

Conclusion
These Soft and Fluffy Sesame Seed Buns are the perfect addition to any meal. Their light texture and golden crust make them a versatile choice for everything from burgers to breakfast rolls. Homemade and delicious, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
    Yes, use the same amount and skip the frothing step.
  2. What can I substitute for sesame seeds?
    Poppy seeds or omit them altogether.
  3. Can I make smaller buns?
    Yes, use a smaller cutter and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
  4. How do I ensure my buns are soft?
    Do not over-bake and cover with a towel immediately after baking.
  5. Can I use whole wheat flour?
    Replace up to 50% of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  6. What if I don’t have a rolling pin?
    Flatten the dough with your hands or a clean bottle.
  7. Can I add flavors?
    Yes, mix herbs, garlic powder, or cheese into the dough for extra flavor.
  8. How do I reheat the buns?
    Warm them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for a few minutes.
  9. What oil works best?
    Any neutral oil like sunflower or canola works well.
  10. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes, refrigerate overnight after the first rise and bake the next day.

Enjoy these delicious buns fresh from your oven, and let them elevate any meal!