Soft & Fluffy Hamburger Buns
There’s just something magical about biting into a homemade burger and realizing the bun is just as good—if not better—than the patty. These soft & fluffy hamburger buns are exactly that kind of magic. Light, pillowy, slightly sweet, and golden-topped perfection. If you’ve only ever used store-bought buns, get ready to change the burger game in your kitchen.
These buns are easy to make and seriously satisfying. They also freeze beautifully, so you can whip up a batch and stash some away for later.
YOU WILL NEED:
For the Dough
- 50 ml (about 3 ½ tablespoons) warm milk
- 250 ml (1 cup) warm water
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 ½ tablespoons sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 600 g (about 4 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour
- 60 g (4 tablespoons) softened butter
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Sesame Seeds (optional, but highly recommended!
DIRECTIONS:
How to Make Them
1. Activate the yeast
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it’s a bit foamy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to go!
2. Mix the dough
Add the egg, salt, and about half of the flour. Mix until combined, then slowly add the rest of the flour. Knead for 5–7 minutes, either by hand or with a dough hook, until it starts coming together.
3. Add the butter
Now add the softened butter and knead for another 5–7 minutes. The dough should be smooth, soft, and slightly tacky—but not sticky. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
4. First rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the buns
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8–10 equal pieces, depending on how big you want your buns. Shape into smooth balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Gently press them down to flatten slightly.
6. Final proof
Cover and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
7. Egg wash & toppings
Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the buns generously with this egg wash. Sprinkle sesame seeds if using.
8. Bake
Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Tips & Tricks
Use a kitchen scale if you can—it’s the most accurate way to get perfect results.
Let the buns cool completely before slicing so they stay fluffy inside.
Want a sweeter roll? Add a bit more sugar.
These buns freeze great! Just pop them in a freezer bag once they’ve cooled completely.