These soft and gooey filled buns are a unique treat that combines a fluffy dough with a delicious, melty filling. The dough is made from a simple mixture of all-purpose flour, warm milk, and butter, and it’s then filled with a variety of sweet or savory options. The key to this recipe’s incredible texture lies in the par-cooking step, where the dough is briefly boiled in baking soda water, creating a soft and airy texture in the buns. Once baked, these buns are golden brown on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside, with a filling that’s perfectly melted. Whether you choose a rich, sweet filling like boiled condensed milk or something savory like cheese and vegetables, these buns are sure to impress.
This recipe is a fun and unique twist on traditional stuffed buns, creating a perfect balance of soft bread and flavorful filling. They make a wonderful snack, appetizer, or even a quick breakfast when paired with a hot beverage. The combination of the slightly sweet dough and gooey filling creates a comforting, satisfying bite that’s ideal for any occasion. These buns are perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or casual get-togethers with friends. Not only are they delicious, but the cooking process is fun and interactive, making it a perfect recipe for home bakers of all skill levels.
Preparation Time
- Active Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 12 buns
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 200ml warm milk
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp yeast
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 1/3 tbsp salt
- 40g butter, softened
For the Filling (recommended):
- Boiled condensed milk (or any filling of your choice)
For Par-cooking the Buns:
- 2 liters water
- 2-3 tsp baking soda
Directions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to help the dough rise.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and softened butter to the yeast mixture.
- Mix until everything is well combined, and knead the dough for several minutes until it becomes soft, slightly sticky, and smooth.
- The dough will be wetter than usual bread dough, but that’s okay—don’t add too much extra flour.
Step 3: First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Shape and Fill
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a small disc.
- Place a spoonful of your desired filling (like boiled condensed milk or your favorite jam, Nutella, or even savory fillings like cheese) in the center of each disc.
- Wrap the dough around the filling to form a ball. Be sure to seal the seams tightly to avoid any leakage during baking.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover the filled dough balls with a cloth and let them rise for another 20 minutes. They should puff up slightly again.
Step 6: Par-cook in Baking Soda Water
- Bring 2 liters of water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add 2-3 tsp of baking soda to the water.
- Gently drop the dough balls into the boiling water, one by one, and cook each for 30 seconds.
- The baking soda will help create a unique, light, and airy texture in the buns, so don’t skip this step!
- Carefully remove the buns from the water using a slotted spoon and place them on a greased baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have puffed up nicely.
Step 8: Enjoy Warm!
- Once the buns are baked, let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve them warm and enjoy the melted, gooey filling inside! If you like, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
More Information:
- Fillings: You can experiment with a variety of fillings! Try using Nutella, fruit jams, or savory fillings like cheese and herbs.
- Substitute for Baking Soda: If you don’t have baking soda, you can use lye water as a substitute. However, be very careful when handling lye water, as it can be caustic.
- Storage: Leftover buns can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe
Stuffed buns have been a staple in many cultures around the world, from the rich and flaky pastries of the Middle East to the savory-filled buns of Eastern Europe. The concept of filling bread with a variety of savory or sweet fillings dates back centuries, with different cultures putting their own spin on it. For example, in the Middle East, you’ll find a wide range of stuffed flatbreads and buns that include ingredients like meats, cheese, and vegetables. In Eastern Europe, buns filled with fruit or sweetened cream cheese have long been a favorite.
The technique of boiling dough in baking soda or lye water before baking is famously used in pretzel-making, a practice that imparts a distinctive texture to the bread. This recipe borrows that technique to create buns that are both fluffy and chewy, with a slight sheen and crispness on the outside. The combination of this unique cooking method with a gooey, caramel-like filling is what makes these buns stand out, creating a fusion of textures and flavors that are both comforting and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for soft and gooey filled buns is the perfect balance of soft, fluffy bread and a sweet or savory filling. The dough’s texture is light and airy, and the gooey filling provides a satisfying bite that melts in your mouth. The secret to these buns’ unique texture is the par-cooking step in baking soda water, which results in a perfect, chewy exterior. Whether you opt for sweet fillings like condensed milk or savory options like cheese, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While these filled buns are indulgent and delicious, they still offer some nutritional benefits. The dough is made with basic, whole ingredients like flour, milk, and butter, which provide a good source of energy. The fillings can be customized to be as healthy or decadent as you like. For example, using fruit jams, cheese, or veggies in the filling can add additional nutrients. The use of yeast in the dough also provides some B vitamins, and when paired with a balanced meal, these buns can be part of a satisfying and nutritious dish.
Serving Suggestions
These buns can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a main meal when paired with a side salad or a bowl of soup. They are perfect for breakfast when served with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete meal, you can serve them with a refreshing green salad or roasted vegetables. They also make for a great addition to a picnic, party, or gathering. The warm, gooey filling inside pairs beautifully with a light dip or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Tips
- Make sure the dough is soft but not too sticky to handle. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but not too much as you want the dough to remain soft and light.
- If you are using savory fillings like cheese, consider adding some herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic to enhance the flavor.
- To ensure the buns stay sealed, make sure to pinch the seams tightly after filling them to prevent any leakage during baking.
- You can substitute the boiled condensed milk with chocolate or other fillings of your choice.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Use a filling of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Sweet Version: Try filling the buns with a fruit compote or sweetened cream cheese for a dessert option.
- Spicy Chicken Buns: Add cooked chicken mixed with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili flakes for a spicy, savory twist.
Conclusion
These soft and gooey filled buns are a delicious treat that combines a fluffy, airy dough with a rich, melted filling. The par-cooking step in baking soda water creates a unique texture that is both chewy and light, while the fillings—whether sweet or savory—add a wonderful burst of flavor. These buns are versatile and easy to make, and they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main meal, these filled buns will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these buns ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and fillings in advance. Assemble the buns, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I freeze these buns?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked buns. Once frozen, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use other fillings?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can experiment with sweet fillings like Nutella, jam, or chocolate, or try savory options like cheese, sausage, or vegetables.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.