Homemade Dinner Buns
These homemade dinner buns are irresistibly soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, perfect for pairing with soups, sandwiches, or enjoying fresh out of the oven. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, these buns can be customized with various flavor twists, making them an ideal baking project for any skill level.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 buns 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains Gluten, Contains Dairy and Eggs (can be adapted for dairy-free but not gluten-free)
Main Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
Variations (Optional)
- Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier bun
- Add 1–2 teaspoons chopped rosemary, thyme, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for herb-infused buns
- Use almond milk and coconut oil instead of milk and butter for dairy-free option
- Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and increase sugar to 1/4 cup for sweet dinner buns
- Sprinkle sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds on top before baking
- Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and stir in the sugar and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead Until Smooth: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for optimal texture.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Buns: Gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide into 12 to 16 equal portions depending on desired size. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Final Rise: Cover shaped buns loosely and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, until puffed and nearly doubled in size.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). For a glossy golden top, brush buns with beaten egg wash. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Notes
- Use fresh yeast for best rise and fluffiness.
- Avoid adding too much flour to prevent dense, dry buns.
- Provide a warm place for rising, such as near a warm oven or radiator.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the egg wash to enhance browning.
- Brush warm buns with melted butter after baking for extra softness and shine.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: dinner buns, homemade bread, soft buns, fluffy buns, bread rolls, baking, yeast buns, sliders