Description
Soft, fluffy steamed bao buns with a light and airy texture, perfect for filling with savory or fresh ingredients. These versatile buns are simple to make and deliver comforting, homemade flavor.
Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp instant yeast
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm milk
1/4 cup warm water
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp baking powder
Extra oil for brushing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add warm milk, warm water, and vegetable oil, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Punch down the dough, knead briefly, then knead in the baking powder.
- Divide into 12 portions and shape each into a ball.
- Roll each ball into an oval about 1/4 inch thick, brush lightly with oil, and fold in half.
- Place on parchment paper and let rest for 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Steam buns over simmering water for 10 minutes.
- Turn off heat and let buns sit in the steamer for 2 minutes before removing.
Notes
Fill with chicken, tofu, or vegetables for different variations.
Replace milk with water or plant-based milk if needed.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat by steaming or microwaving with a damp paper towel.
Do not overproof to prevent collapsing during steaming.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
