Description

Soft, slightly sweet, and sturdy homemade hamburger buns designed for meal prep. These buns withstand refrigeration and reheat like fresh-baked treats, offering a pillowy texture without the hassle of long rising times.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp or 7g) active dry yeast
2 tablespoons milk powder
3/4 cup (180ml) warm water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and milk powder. Make a well in the center.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the yeast mixture into the well and add melted butter. Mix with a wooden spoon or mixer on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until soft and slightly tacky. Add small amounts of flour or water if needed to adjust consistency.
First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
Shape the buns: Punch down the dough gently and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Second rise: Cover shaped buns loosely with a towel and let rise for 20-30 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 10 minutes.
Bake: Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Rotate pan halfway through for even baking.
Cool: Remove from oven and optionally brush with melted butter. Let cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing or storing.

Notes

Ensure yeast is fresh and water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. Do not over-knead to prevent tough buns. Allow buns to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess. For meal prep, store in an airtight container or freeze. Reheat in microwave with a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bun
Calories: 180
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 250
Fat: 3
Saturated Fat: 1.5
Carbohydrates: 30
Fiber: 1
Protein: 5

Keywords: hamburger buns, meal prep, homemade bread, yeast rolls, quick bread, reheatable buns, soft buns