chinese bread buns recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best chinese bread buns recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Chinese bread buns. This recipe has been passed down from my mother-in-law, who learned it from her mother, and it’s a staple in our household for special occasions and everyday meals. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house is just irresistible, and the taste of these soft, fluffy buns is simply divine. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them.

They can’t get enough of the soft, fluffy texture and the sweetness of the buns. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make and how quickly it comes together. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. Not only do we enjoy these buns as a snack or side dish, but we also use them as a base for delicious sandwiches and wraps.

My husband loves them toasted with butter and jam, while I prefer mine with a slice of ham or turkey. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Just flour, yeast, sugar, eggs, milk, salt, and butter come together to create these amazing buns that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.

, I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to for its simplicity and delicious results. The key to making these buns is in the dough – it needs to be smooth and elastic before you can shape it into balls and let it rise. I’ve found that using warm milk helps to activate the yeast and get the dough rising quickly. , Once you’ve mixed the dough together, let it rest for at least an hour before shaping it into balls.

Then, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise again until they’ve doubled in size. , To ensure that your buns turn out light and fluffy, don’t overmix the dough – just mix it until it comes together in a shaggy mass before kneading it for 5-10 minutes until smooth. , Finally, don’t forget to brush the tops with melted butter before baking – this gives them an incredible golden brown color and adds flavor.

Chinese Steamed Buns (Mantou)

4.6 from 1608 votes

Fluffy, soft steamed buns that are a staple in Chinese cuisine. These versatile bread buns can be enjoyed plain or filled with savory or sweet ingredients.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 150 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm water (110°F)
1/2 cup milk, warm
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
2Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
3This indicates the yeast is active.
4In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
5Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, and vegetable oil.
6Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
7Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
8The dough should spring back when pressed.
9Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
10Punch down the dough and knead briefly on a floured surface.
11Divide into 8 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth ball.
12Place each bun on a small square of parchment paper.
13Cover with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
14Bring water to a boil in a steamer.
15Arrange the buns in the steamer basket, leaving space between them.
16Steam over high heat for 12 minutes.
17Do not open the lid during steaming.
18Turn off the heat and let the buns sit covered for 2 minutes before opening the lid.
19This prevents them from collapsing.
Serve warm.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Clean kitchen towel

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 150 kcal🧈Total Fat: 2g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 2mg🧂Sodium: 150mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a sweeter bun, increase sugar to 3 tablespoons. Buns can be frozen after steaming and reheated by steaming for 5 minutes.

Watch Video Of How Chinese Steamed Buns (Mantou) Works

These Chinese bread buns are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an impressive centerpiece for your next family gathering.

Simply store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them individually for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warm through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Steamed Buns (Mantou)

What type of flour should I use for Chinese bread buns?

For traditional Chinese bread buns, you’ll want to use all-purpose flour with a high protein content (such as King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill). However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option or prefer a different type of flour entirely (such as whole wheat), feel free to experiment – just be aware that your results may vary.

How long does it take for Chinese bread buns to rise?

The first rise typically takes about 1-2 hours in a warm place (around 75°F/24°C), depending on your yeast activity and environment temperature.

Can I make Chinese bread buns without yeast?

No! Yeast is essential for creating those beautiful bubbles inside your buns.

What if I don’t have active dry yeast? Can I substitute instant yeast?

You can use instant yeast as long as you adjust its ratio accordingly.

Should I let my Chinese bread buns rest after shaping?

A 10-minute rest after shaping will help your dough relax before cutting into smaller pieces.

Similar Posts