Fluffy Homemade Bao Buns Steamed Buns

My Fluffy Bao Buns Steamed Buns Recipe

By OliviaAugust 30, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a go at Steamed Buns Recipe ?

Ever fancied making your own bao buns ? Honestly, these fluffy clouds are easier than you think. This steamed buns recipe delivers seriously tasty and pillowy soft buns, perfect for any filling.

Think homemade bao buns recipe , proper delicious.

Little History and a Few Details

These Chinese steamed buns are proper comfort food. Rooted in Chinese cuisine, they're a staple of dim sum recipes . This easy bao bun recipe takes about 2-2.

5 hours, including rising time. Makes 12 glorious buns.

Why Bother, Mate?

Besides tasting amazing, making your own fluffy steamed buns means you control what goes in. Plus, they're a brilliant centrepiece for any gathering.

The perfect occasion for serving would be a casual dinner with mates, or a proper family feast.

Right, let's get down to brass tacks.

What You'll Need for Your Steamed Buns

2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast.
1/4 cup (60ml) warm water.
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar.
1 cup (240ml) milk, warmed slightly.
2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil, plus extra for greasing.
1 teaspoon (5g) salt.
3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting.
1 teaspoon (4g) baking powder.

Optional squares of non-stick parchment paper.

These ingredients will allow you to cook some proper steamed buns.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Alright, so you're ready to make some proper steamed buns ? This easy bao bun recipe is totally doable. First things first, let's get all our bits and bobs together.

Honestly, having everything ready before you start makes life SO much easier. I once forgot the baking powder, and ended up with flat, sad little discs.

Lesson learned!

Main Ingredients for Fluffy Steamed Buns

Here's what you need for the dough. We are making sure these homemade bao buns are just perfect!

Active dry yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) . Make sure it's not ancient.
Warm water: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Temperature: 105- 115° F (40- 46° C) . Not too hot, or you'll kill the yeast.
Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (50g) .
Milk: 1 cup (240ml) , slightly warmed.
Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , plus extra for greasing.
Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g) .
All-purpose flour: 3 1/2 cups (420g) , plus more for dusting.
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon (4g) . This is key for the fluff!

Seasoning Notes for This Dim Sum Recipes

Don't worry too much about fancy seasonings for the dough itself. But the right filling is where it's at!

Essential spice combinations: For a classic steamed pork buns , think ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of Chinese five spice powder.
Flavor enhancers and aromatics: A dash of sesame oil can really lift the bbq pork recipes .
Quick substitution options: No five spice? A pinch of cinnamon and cloves will do in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple. No need for mad gadgets!

Large mixing bowl: For mixing all the ingredients.
Stand mixer: (Optional) Makes kneading easier. But hands work just fine, too.
Steamer: A bamboo steamer is the classic. A vegetable steamer insert in a big pot works too.
Rolling pin: For shaping the buns.
Clean kitchen towel: For covering the dough.
Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial!
Thermometer: (Optional) To make sure your water is the right temperature.

There you have it! Everything you need to make these amazing Chinese steamed buns . Time to get baking, my friend! You're going to nail this steam buns recipe !

Let's Get Steaming: Homemade Bao Buns are Here!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good bao bun? Those soft, pillowy pockets of deliciousness get me every time. And today, we are going to make our own fluffy steamed buns .

Forget the takeaway; we're going proper homemade!

Prep Like a Pro

First, the mise en place . Get everything measured out before you start. It's like prepping your toolbox before a big DIY project.

For this steamed buns recipe , you will need your yeast, water, sugar, milk, oil, salt, flour, and baking powder all ready to go.

Trust me, it saves loads of time. Think of it as your essential arsenal.

Also, safety first, yeah? Make sure the water you use for the yeast isn't too hot. Temperature should be around 105- 115° F (40- 46° C) .

Too hot and you'll kill the poor little fellas. And nobody wants dead yeast!

Steamed Buns Recipe: step-by-step

Right then, here’s how we're gonna make these homemade bao buns recipe .

Wake up the yeast: Combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Wait 5- 10 minutes till it's foamy.
Mix the wets: In a big bowl, mix the foamy yeast, warm milk, oil, and salt.
Add the dries: Slowly add flour and baking powder. Mix till it's a shaggy dough.
Knead time: Knead for 8- 10 minutes (or 5- 7 minutes with a mixer) till smooth.
First rise: Pop the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-1. 5 hours , or until doubled.
Divide and conquer: Punch down, then split into 12 bits.
Roll and fold: Roll each bit into a small oval, fold in half, and put on parchment paper.
Second rise: Cover and let rise again for 30- 45 minutes .
Steam away: Steam for 15- 20 minutes . They should spring back when you touch them.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Bao

Want to really nail this easy bao bun recipe ? Don't over knead. Tough buns are no fun. Use parchment paper! It stops the buns from sticking.

A common mistake? Opening the steamer too early! Leave the lid shut for a few minutes after steaming for extra fluffy steamed buns .

You can make the dough ahead, too. Just keep it in the fridge after the first rise. When you're ready, shape and steam! Now that is real clever stuff.

So, go on then. Get your apron on and whip up some delicious bao buns. You won't regret it! For the filling, why not try some bbq pork recipes or even a classic Chinese bbq pork .

You can even search for dim sum recipes to find something adventurous!.

Recipe Notes for the Perfect Steamed Buns Recipe

Right then, you've got the steamed buns recipe . Now, a few extra bits and bobs to help you nail it.

These aren't just instructions, they're little secrets I've picked up along the way!

Ace Serving Suggestions

Honestly, the way you plate these bao buns can make all the difference.

Plating and Presentation Ideas: Think vibrant colours! Serve them in a bamboo steamer for that authentic dim sum feel. Garnish with spring onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Makes 'em look proper fancy, doesn't it?

Complementary Sides or Beverages: These steamed pork buns are begging for a crisp, refreshing beer. A light lager or even a ginger ale works wonders.

For sides, try a simple cucumber salad or some pickled ginger. Perfect with Bbq Pork Recipes !

Storage Tips

Let's talk about keeping these fluffy fellas fresh.

Refrigeration Guidelines: If you've got leftovers. First of all, wow. Anyway pop those bad boys in an airtight container and they will be good in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing Options (if applicable): Guess what? These freeze like a dream. Wrap them individually in cling film then pop them into a freezer bag. They'll last for up to a month.

Reheating Instructions: My favourite is to re-steam. Just pop them back in the steamer for a few minutes until they're warmed through.

Microwave works in a pinch, but can make them a tad rubbery.

Variations on the Homemade Bao Buns Recipe

Fancy a change? Here are a couple of ideas:

Dietary Adaptations: For a veggie version, swap the filling for roasted veggies like butternut squash or mushrooms. Also great with tofu. dairy-free? Just use almond milk in the dough. Easy peasy.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, fill them with spiced apple or pumpkin puree for a sweet treat. Summer calls for fresh berries and a dollop of cream.

Get creative with those bao bun fillings .

Fluffy Steamed Buns and Nutrition Basics

Let's keep it simple, yeah?

Simplified Nutrition Information: Each bun has about 150-180 calories. You'll also get a decent hit of carbs and a bit of protein. It's all about balance, innit?

Key Health Benefits: These Easy Bao Bun Recipe are a good source of energy. Because you are making them at home, you also have full control of the ingredients.

So there you have it. All the little secrets for making the most amazing Chinese steamed buns . Don't be afraid to experiment! Remember, even if they don't look perfect, they'll still taste amazing.

Now get baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

My steamed buns turned out dense and not fluffy. What went wrong?

A few things could have contributed to dense steamed buns. Firstly, ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated. Secondly, make sure you're not over kneading the dough, which can toughen the gluten. Finally, adequate rising time (both the first and second rise) is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture.

Think of it like proving bread patience is key, my friend!

How do I store leftover steamed buns and how long do they last?

To store your lovely bao buns, let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in cling film or place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. They'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage (up to a month); just make sure to wrap them well.

Reheat by steaming them again for a few minutes until warmed through. It's like having a little piece of Chinatown on demand!

Can I make the dough for this steamed buns recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it go through its first rise, and then punch it down, wrap it well in cling film, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to make your bao buns, take the dough out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and proceeding with the second rise and steaming.

It's a proper time saver when you're juggling a busy schedule.

What are some filling suggestions for these fluffy homemade bao buns?

The possibilities are endless, really! For a classic experience, try braised pork belly with pickled mustard greens and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts. Crispy fried chicken with a drizzle of spicy mayo is always a winner too. Vegetarians might enjoy a filling of stir fried mushrooms, tofu, and hoisin sauce.

Get creative and use whatever tickles your fancy, innit?

My steamer drips water onto the steamed buns while they're cooking. How can I prevent this?

That's a common problem! The best way to prevent water from dripping onto your precious steamed buns is to wrap the lid of your steamer with a clean kitchen towel. This will absorb the condensation and stop it from ruining your buns.

Alternatively, you could use a steamer with a sloped lid, designed to direct condensation away from the food. Happy steaming, mate!

Is there a healthier version of this steamed buns recipe?

You can make a few tweaks to create a slightly healthier version of the recipe. Try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You could also reduce the amount of sugar slightly.

When it comes to fillings, opt for lean proteins like chicken breast or tofu, and load up on vegetables. Every little helps, as they say!