Perfect Fluffy Buns: Easy Recipe for Soft Dough

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

1.75 cups milk (400 ml)
6 cups flour (700 grams)
4 tablespoons sugar
0.5 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dry active yeast (8 grams)
2 eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder (10 grams)
1 tablespoon vinegar (9%)
5.5 tablespoons vegetable oil (80 ml)
3.5 tablespoons butter (50 grams)

For Brushing the Buns

Milk and yolk mixture in a 1:1 ratio (e.g., 1 tablespoon milk per yolk)

Optional Filling

Chocolate spread
Dark chocolate, finely chopped

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
You need at least two mixing bowls. One for the wet ingredients and another for the dry. Make sure they're large enough to allow easy mixing without spills.
Spatula
A good silicone or rubber spatula will help you mix the ingredients smoothly and scrape down the sides of the bowl effectively.
Stand Mixer (optional)
If you want to save some elbow grease, a stand mixer with a dough hook can make kneading the dough a breeze.
Baking Sheets
You'll need baking sheets lined with parchment paper to ensure the buns bake evenly and don't stick.
Brush
A pastry brush is essential for applying the egg yolk and milk mixture for that beautiful golden-brown finish.

Instructions

Step 1

Preparation

Mix the milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir in a couple of tablespoons of sifted flour (from the total amount listed). The consistency should resemble liquid sour cream. Cover with a towel and place in a warm spot for 20 minutes until the mixture bubbles up and at least doubles in size.

Stir in the eggs, salt, and vegetable oil until smooth.

In a separate bowl, sift the flour and add the baking powder. Mix well.

Add half of the dry ingredients to the liquid mixture and mix with a spatula to form a dough.

Stir in the vinegar, mix well, and then add the remaining flour. Knead the dough until smooth.

Add the soft butter and continue kneading for 5-7 minutes. At first, the dough will be inconsistent, but with time it will become soft, elastic, and non-sticky.

Shape the dough into a ball, grease a container with vegetable oil, place the dough in the container, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours.

Step 2

Assembling and Baking

Place the dough on a work surface and knead it. Add finely chopped chocolate and fold the dough over it.

Divide the dough into 2 portions and each of those into 8 pieces (about 90 grams each). Shape each piece into a round shape, place chocolate spread in the center, and fold and roll each piece.

Place the dough pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let them rest in a warm place for 15-20 minutes to rise.

Brush the buns with the egg yolk and milk mixture and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes in a top and bottom heat mode without convection.

Allow the buns to cool to a warm temperature before serving.

Servings

These chocolate buns are simply versatile when it comes to serving 😍. **Enjoy them fresh out of the oven** with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat. For a more indulgent dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it's an unbeatable combination 🍦. Hosting a brunch? These buns make for a fantastic addition to your spread. Serve them alongside a variety of jams, butters, and fruit to create a brunch experience that will impress your guests 🥂. You can even make mini versions as a sweet treat for parties 🎉. If you're looking to elevate your dessert game, drizzle them with a homemade chocolate glaze or dust them lightly with powdered sugar for that bakery-fresh finish. However you serve them, these buns are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction 📸.

Variations

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe has **totally tasty alternatives** 🌱✨.

Gluten-Free Variation
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to also use a gluten-free baking powder. Follow the same steps for equally delicious results 🙌.
Vegan Variation
Substitute the milk with almond, oat, or soy milk. Replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Use vegan butter instead of dairy butter and select a chocolate spread that's vegan-certified for the filling 🌿. The outcome will be just as delightful!

Faq

How long should I knead the dough manually?
Kneading by hand generally takes around 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
How can I tell if my yeast is active?
If your yeast is active, the mixture will bubble and foam within 10-15 minutes of mixing it with warm milk and sugar.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before proceeding with the assembling steps.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just reduce the amount to about 2.5 teaspoons, and you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without blooming.
How do I store leftover buns?
Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just defrost and warm them up in the oven before serving.
What's the best way to warm up the buns?
The best way to reheat the buns is to place them in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10 minutes. This will keep them soft and warm without drying them out.