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steamed bao buns

Steamed Bao Buns

Wife with the Knife
These steamed bao buns are soft, pillowy little clouds you can fill with just about anything. Think juicy pork belly, crispy tofu, or fresh crunchy veg, all tucked into warm, fluffy bread that practically melts in your mouth. Once you make them at home, store-bought just won’t hit the same.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Proof Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Dinner, Hors d'oeuvres, Lunch
Cuisine Asian
Servings 12 buns

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer
  • Steam Basket
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

  • 3½ cups all purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp instant yeast fast rising
  • 3 tbsp milk
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 3 tbsp neutral oil (or light olive oil)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for brushing

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly foamy.
  • In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour and salt.
  • Warm the milk with the oil in a small saucepan over low heat (do not boil).
  • Make a well in the flour and add the yeast mixture and warm milk mixture.
  • Using a dough hook, knead on low speed until a soft dough ball forms.
  • Cover and rest the dough for 30 minutes.
  • Divide dough into 12-14 even pieces and roll into balls.
  • Roll each ball into a thin oval disc (about ½ cm thick).
  • Lightly brush with oil and fold into a half-moon shape.
  • Place on parchment-lined trays, cover, and proof for 1–2 hours until puffy.
  • Line steamer basket with parchment paper.
  • Steam buns in batches for about 10 minutes.
  • Serve warm and fill immediately with your favourite fillings.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

  • Keep bun sizes consistent for even steaming.
  • Don’t overcrowd the steamer.
  • Best served fresh while warm and fluffy.
 

Storage

  • Fridge: Store bao buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days to keep them fresh and soft.
  • Reheating: Place bao buns on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20–30 seconds until soft and warm. You can also re-steam them for the best texture.
  • Freezing: Freeze fully steamed and cooled bao buns in an airtight container or freezer bag.
    • To serve: Steam from frozen for 10–12 minutes, or until soft and fluffy again.
 
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Keyword Asian Inspired, Bao Bun, Cantonese Dish, Chinese dish, Dim sum, Gourmet Dishes, Mini Bao, Party Food, Steamed Buns, Street Food, Stuffed Food