Imagine biting into a pillowy soft, cloud-like bun that melts in your mouth with a delicate sweetness - that's exactly what these Japanese Soft White Buns promise! These heavenly little bread rolls are not just a recipe, but a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into restaurant-quality delights. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside your favorite meals, these buns will transport your taste buds straight to a cozy Japanese bakery, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 10 buns
Ingredients
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 packet instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, sugar, and instant yeast. Mix dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Warm milk and butter together until butter is melted and mixture is lukewarm (around 110°F). Ensure the temperature is not too hot to kill the yeast.
- Create a well in the center of dry ingredients and pour in the warm milk-butter mixture and beaten egg.
- Mix ingredients using a wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook until a soft, sticky dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 10 equal portions. Shape each portion into smooth, round balls.
- Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Cover and let rise again for 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush bun tops with egg wash or milk for a golden sheen.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until buns are light golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your milk and butter mixture is precisely lukewarm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Knead with Patience: Take the full 8-10 minutes to knead the dough, which develops the gluten and gives your buns that signature soft texture.
- Rising Environment Matters: Find a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise - near a warm oven or in a slightly heated room works perfectly.
- Shaping Technique: When forming dough balls, use a smooth rolling motion on the counter to create perfectly round, uniform buns.
- Egg Wash Magic: Brushing with egg wash or milk before baking gives your buns a beautiful golden, glossy finish.
- Don't Overbake: Watch carefully and remove when they're light golden brown to maintain their soft, tender interior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg
