Hamburger Buns

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own Hamburger Buns. I remember the first time I decided to tackle this delightful task; it was a warm summer evening, and I had invited friends over for a barbecue. I wanted to impress them with juicy burgers, but the store-bought buns just wouldn’t cut it. So, I rolled up my sleeves and ventured into baking. The process of mixing the dough, watching it rise, and then the smell of fresh bread wafting through my kitchen—it was magical. It felt like I was crafting something special, and the joy of serving those soft, fluffy buns was priceless.

Ingredients to Make Hamburger Buns

To make the perfect Hamburger Buns, you need a blend of simple ingredients that work harmoniously together. The combination of flour, yeast, and water creates a light, airy texture, while butter adds richness. The sugar helps to activate the yeast and creates a slight sweetness that balances the flavors. Let’s explore these key players that transform simple components into fresh, delicious buns!

• ¾ to 1 cup water, warmed to the temperature indicated on your yeast packet: This is essential for activating the yeast. The right temperature makes all the difference in proving the dough.
• 2 packets active dry yeast or instant yeast, 1 ½ tablespoons: Yeast is the magic ingredient that makes the dough rise, creating that fluffy texture we all love.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sugar not only feeds the yeast but also adds a touch of sweetness to the buns.
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your buns. It provides structure and helps achieve that soft texture.
• 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature: Butter gives richness and flavor to the buns, enhancing the overall taste.
• 1 large egg, at room temperature: Eggs contribute to the structure and moisture, making the buns tender.
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Salt enhances flavor and controls yeast activity, ensuring your buns have the right taste.
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water to create an egg wash: This gives the buns a beautiful golden color when baked.
• Sesame seeds (optional): A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a delicious crunch and a classic touch.

Making This Hamburger Buns

Creating Hamburger Buns from scratch is a rewarding experience that will have you feeling like a baking pro. Follow these detailed steps and enjoy the process of making your own delicious buns!

1. In a glass measuring cup with a spout, combine the water, yeast, and sugar. Stir the mixture gently and let it rest for two minutes. You should see the yeast foaming up; if it doesn’t, that means your yeast is no longer good, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
2. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, mix together the flour, butter, egg, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix on low speed for two minutes. Gradually increase the speed to medium-high and continue mixing until the dough is smooth and soft, which should take about five minutes. If you’re kneading by hand, combine the ingredients in a large bowl first, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface to knead.
3. Once your dough is ready, place it in a clean bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise until doubled in size, which should take about thirty minutes, depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
4. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. After the dough has risen, gently punch it down in the center with your fist to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and divide it into eight equal pieces. A bench scraper can be helpful for this step.
5. Shape each piece into a ball by pulling the edges towards the center and flipping it so the seam faces down. Cup your hands around the ball and gently drag it towards you on the counter, creating surface tension. Rotate the dough and repeat this until you have a smooth ball.
6. Once shaped, press each ball down with your palm until it’s about half an inch thick. The dough will spring back slightly, which is normal. Arrange four buns per baking sheet, seam side down, leaving enough space for them to rise again.
7. Cover the rolls with lightly oiled plastic wrap and let them rest until puffy and almost doubled in size, which could take around forty-five minutes.
8. As the buns are nearing the end of their rising time, place oven racks in the upper and lower thirds and preheat your oven to 375°F. Once the buns have risen, brush the tops with the egg wash. If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added flavor.
9. Bake the Hamburger Buns in the lower rack for eight minutes. After that, rotate the pans 180 degrees and switch their positions. Continue baking until the buns are golden brown and cooked through, which should take an additional seven to ten minutes. Once done, let them cool completely before slicing them in half horizontally.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are numerous ways you can customize your Hamburger Buns to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some suggestions to inspire your creativity:

• Flour Variations: You can experiment with different types of flour. Whole wheat flour can give your buns a nutty flavor, while bread flour may create a chewier texture.
• Add Seeds: Incorporate ingredients like poppy seeds or chia seeds into the dough for added nutrition and texture.
• Spices and Herbs: Adding spices like garlic powder or herbs such as rosemary can give your buns a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten intolerances, consider using a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
• Flavoring Options: Adding ingredients like cheese or herbs directly into the dough can create flavorful variations.
• Smaller Buns: You can make slider-sized buns for mini burgers or party servings by dividing the dough into smaller portions.
• Bulk Freezing: Bake a batch and freeze them for quick meals. They thaw nicely, ready to be filled with your favorite ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your freshly made Hamburger Buns is where the fun really begins! Here are some excellent ways to enjoy them:

• Classic Burgers: Enjoy them with juicy grilled burgers topped with your choice of cheese, lettuce, and condiments.
• Sliders: Make mini burgers for parties or gatherings; they’re perfect for serving as appetizers.
• Sandwiches: Use the buns for delicious sandwiches, stacking them with deli meats, vegetables, and spreads.
• Picnics: These buns are excellent for picnics; pack them with your favorite fillings and enjoy them outdoors.
• Breakfast Buns: Think outside the bun! Use them for breakfast sandwiches with scrambled eggs and bacon.
• Storage Tips: Keep your buns fresh by storing them in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, consider freezing them for future use.
• Seasonal Pairings: These buns can be great for summer barbecues or winter comfort meals; they are versatile enough for any season.

FAQ

Conclusion

Making Hamburger Buns from scratch is a gratifying experience that elevates your meal to the next level. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of serving homemade buns. Your friends and family will appreciate the effort, and you’ll love the delicious taste that only fresh, warm buns can provide!

Hamburger Buns

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these homemade Hamburger Buns. Soft, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious, they elevate any burger experience. Say goodbye to store-bought buns and hello to your new weekend baking tradition!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 170

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¾ to 1 cup Water Warmed to the temperature indicated on your yeast packet.
• 2 packets Active dry yeast or instant yeast 1 ½ tablespoons.
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 3 ½ cups All-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Butter At room temperature.
• 1 large Egg At room temperature.
• 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher salt
• 1 large Egg Beaten with 1 tablespoon water to create an egg wash.
• Sesame seeds Optional.

Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a glass measuring cup with a spout, combine the water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let rest for 2 minutes. The yeast should foam up; if it doesn't, your yeast is no longer good and you need to start over with new yeast.
2. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, place the flour, butter, egg, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed for two minutes, then increase the heat to medium-high and continue mixing until the dough is smooth and soft, about five minutes.
3. Place the dough in a bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 30 minutes, depending upon your kitchen.
4. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. With your fist, gently press down the dough in its center. Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and divide it into eight pieces.
5. Form each piece into a ball, pulling the edges towards each other into the center. Flip the dough over so the seam is touching the counter. Cup your hands around the ball and drag it gently towards you.
6. With your palm, press down until the dough is about half an inch thick, then release. Arrange four buns per sheet, placing them seam side down and leaving them plenty of room to rise.
7. Cover the rolls with lightly oiled plastic wrap and let rest until puffy and almost doubled, about 45 minutes.
8. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the buns. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds.
9. Bake the Hamburger Buns on the lower rack for eight minutes, then rotate the pans and switch their positions. Continue baking until golden and cooked through, about seven to ten minutes more. Let cool, then slice in half horizontally.

Notes

• WATER: Use ¾ cup of water if you are in a warm, humid environment. If it’s winter or the air is drier, use up to 1 cup. For something in between, use ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons.
• YEAST: I use active dry yeast and warm my water to between 100°F and 110°F.
• TO STORE: Place the cooled buns in an airtight container or zip-top bag and store at room temperature for up to three days.
• TO FREEZE: Freeze the hamburger buns in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before using.

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Meet Georgia Clark

I’m the one who obsesses over the details so you don't have to. I love the science of cooking and perfecting comfort classics. I’ve tested this recipe multiple times to guarantee it comes out foolproof and delicious every single time you make it.