👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Best Homemade Burger Buns
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in lukewarm milk with a teaspoon of the sugar. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and mashed potatoes.
- Add in the egg yolks and activated yeast mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook for 8–10 minutes, gradually adding the softened butter in small chunks until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Rise
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl.
- Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
- Once risen, gently punch down the dough to remove excess air.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces (around 120–130g each).
- Shape each piece into a smooth ball, tucking the edges underneath to form a tight surface.
- Place the buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced at least 5 cm apart to allow room for rising.
Step 4: Second Rise
- Cover the buns loosely with plastic wrap or a towel.
- Let them proof for about 45–60 minutes, or until puffy and nearly doubled.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Beat the egg yolk with a splash of milk and brush it gently over each bun.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for that classic burger bun finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. For the softest buns, cover them lightly with a clean towel while cooling to trap a bit of moisture in the crust.
🥇 Why These Are the Best Homemade Burger Buns
1. Soft and Fluffy Inside
The addition of mashed potatoes in the dough adds a moist, pillowy texture that rivals any professional bakery bun.
2. Golden and Shiny Crust
Thanks to the egg wash, these buns bake up with a shiny, golden-brown crust that’s perfect for presentation.
3. Sturdy Yet Tender
These buns hold up to juicy patties, sauces, and toppings without falling apart — making them ideal for gourmet burgers.
4. Customizable
You can sprinkle poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or oats on top for a different twist. Or, add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder into the dough for an aromatic flavor.
🍔 How to Use Your Burger Buns
While perfect for burgers, these buns are incredibly versatile:
- Sliders: Make smaller versions for party-friendly sliders.
- Breakfast sandwiches: Stuff them with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon.
- Pulled pork or chicken: The buns are strong enough to hold saucy fillings.
- Grilled veggie sandwiches: Add roasted peppers, zucchini, and hummus.
- Homemade sloppy joes: Their sturdiness is ideal for this classic messy dish.
đź§Š Storage and Freezing Tips
- Room Temperature: Store cooled buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in the oven before serving.
🌱 Make It Healthier
Want to make this recipe a bit more health-conscious?
- Use whole wheat flour for half the flour amount for added fiber.
- Swap out sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Use plant-based milk and butter for a dairy-free option.
🛠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Not letting the dough rise fully.
Impatience can lead to dense, underproofed buns. Make sure the dough has visibly doubled in size before shaping.
Mistake 2: Overbaking.
Keep an eye on your oven; overbaked buns become dry quickly. Pull them out once they’re golden on top and sound slightly hollow when tapped.
Mistake 3: Skipping the egg wash.
This little step makes a big difference in appearance. It gives the buns that shiny, golden crust that looks bakery-quality.
🍽️ Final Thoughts: Homemade Buns Make All the Difference
Store-bought buns just can’t compete with the flavor and texture of homemade ones. With this recipe, you can make burger nights extra special — whether it’s a casual backyard BBQ or a cozy indoor dinner. The soft, buttery texture and beautiful golden tops will have everyone asking where you bought them from. And the best part? You made them yourself.
So grab your apron, dust off your flour, and get ready to bake the best burger buns of your life. Trust us: once you go homemade, you’ll never go back!