Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and half of the sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the yeast mixture and the eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula to combine. Then mix on low speed using a stand mixer/hand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment until combined. You can also use your hands.
Rest the dough
- Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes so that the gluten can develop.
Knead the Dough:
- Start kneading the dough with the help of a stand/hand mixer or hands. Continue kneading the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using your hands it can get messy, do not add more flour. Use scrape for ease.
Incorporate Butter:
- Add the softened butter, a few tablespoons at a time, to the dough while continuing to knead. Ensure each portion of butter is fully incorporated before adding the next. This process should take about 10 minutes.
First Rise:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Buns:
- Once the dough has risen, transfer the dough to a well-dusted surface. Punch down the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces (for larger buns) or 12 pieces (for smaller buns). Shape each piece into a tight ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C.
Brush and Bake:
- Gently brush the risen buns with the milk/egg wash. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown.
Cool:
- Allow the buns to cool completely on the baking pan itself before serving.
