Red Bean Milk Buns

Fluffy and delightful, Red Bean Milk Buns are a perfect treat for any occasion. These soft milk buns filled with sweetened red bean paste offer a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these buns stand out due to their comforting texture and subtle sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The dough comes together quickly and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy them warm as a snack or serve them at gatherings for an impressive treat that everyone will love.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of fluffy bread and sweet red bean paste creates a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Red Bean Milk Buns, gather the necessary tools. Having everything at hand will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Dough hook
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort, allowing you to knead the dough evenly without tiring your arms.
• Dough hook: A dough hook ensures your ingredients mix thoroughly, creating a uniform texture in your buns.
• Baking sheet: Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these delicious Red Bean Milk Buns:

For the Filling

• 18 ounces sweetened red bean paste

For the Dough

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon milk powder (optional)
• 1 cup whole milk (warm)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream (warm)
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon whole milk

For Topping

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

How to Make Red Bean Milk Buns

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a stand mixer with a dough hook, combine the following ingredients:
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 tablespoon milk powder (optional)

Add in:
– 1 cup warm whole milk
– 1/3 cup warm heavy cream
– 1 egg

Knead on low speed for about 10 minutes until the dough is tacky but well combined. Do not add more flour. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rest for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Portion the Dough

Flour your work surface lightly. Divide the dough into 9 equal pieces. Form each piece into a ball by tucking the sides towards the center. Loosely cover them with plastic wrap.

Step 3: Form the Red Bean Buns

Take one ball of dough and stretch it into a circle about 4 inches wide, keeping the center thicker. Place approximately 1/4 cup of red bean paste in the middle. Bring the edges towards the center and pinch to seal securely. Roll between your hands to smooth out any seams. Place each bun seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this step for all pieces of dough.

Step 4: Optional Flower Shape

If desired, dust your hands with flour and gently flatten each bun slightly. Use scissors to cut five slits into each bun’s top to create a flower shape.

Step 5: Second Rise

Allow the buns to rest in a warm area for about 30 minutes to an hour until they nearly double in size. While they are resting, preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake

Mix together one egg yolk with one tablespoon of whole milk and brush this mixture over each bun. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before placing them in the oven. Bake for around 20 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Red Bean Milk Buns

Red Bean Milk Buns are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, these fluffy buns pair well with various beverages and dishes.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair with your favorite morning brew for a delightful start to the day.
• Enjoy with herbal tea in the afternoon for a cozy pick-me-up.

As a Snack

• Serve them warm as a quick snack during the day.
• Add a smear of butter or cream cheese for extra richness.

With Fresh Fruits

• Complement with slices of fresh fruits like strawberries or oranges for a refreshing contrast.
• Create a fruit platter alongside the buns for an elegant brunch spread.

Drizzled with Honey or Syrup

• Drizzle honey over the warm buns for added sweetness.
• Use maple syrup for a unique flavor boost that enhances the red bean paste.

How to Perfect Red Bean Milk Buns

Creating perfect Red Bean Milk Buns requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Knead until smooth: Ensure you knead the dough well until it is smooth and elastic. This helps achieve the fluffy texture.
• Use warm ingredients: Warm milk and cream activate the yeast better, leading to good rise during fermentation.
• Don’t rush the rising: Allow enough time for the dough to double in size. Patience is key to fluffy buns.
• Seal properly: Pinch the dough tightly when enclosing the red bean paste to avoid any filling leaks during baking.
• Preheat oven adequately: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the buns inside. This ensures even baking.

Best Side Dishes for Red Bean Milk Buns

Red Bean Milk Buns can be paired with several side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the sweetness of red bean buns beautifully.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce adds crunch and nutrition next to soft buns.
3. Steamed Dumplings: These savory dumplings create a lovely contrast when served alongside sweet red bean buns.
4. Green Salad: A light green salad with sesame dressing refreshes your palate after indulging in sweet bread.
5. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad balances out the flavors and adds freshness to your meal.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness from baked sweet potato fries pairs nicely with red bean flavors while adding texture.
7. Coconut Sticky Rice: This sweet dish offers an Asian flair that complements red bean paste perfectly, making it an interesting pairing.

These suggestions will help you enjoy your Red Bean Milk Buns in different ways while enhancing your overall dining experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red Bean Milk Buns can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes may hinder your success. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Over-kneading the dough: Knead the dough just enough to achieve a tacky texture. Over-kneading can make the buns tough instead of fluffy.
• Skipping the second rise: This step is crucial for achieving light and airy buns. Give them time to rise after shaping, as it enhances the texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your milk and cream are warm before mixing. Cold ingredients can slow down yeast activation and lead to denser buns.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour. Inaccurate measurements can affect dough consistency.
• Ignoring the baking time: Keep an eye on your buns during baking. Ovens vary, so monitor them to avoid overbaking or underbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Red Bean Milk Buns in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Red Bean Milk Buns

• Wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Red Bean Milk Buns

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Warm the buns for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Use medium power for about 15-20 seconds per bun. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Place buns in a covered pan with a splash of water over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Bean Milk Buns that may help you out.

How do I ensure my Red Bean Milk Buns are fluffy?

To achieve fluffiness, let the dough rise properly during both rises. Warm ingredients and accurate measurements also contribute greatly.

Can I use other fillings besides red bean paste?

Yes! You can customize these buns with various fillings such as sweetened mung bean paste or even chocolate spread for a twist.

What should I serve with Red Bean Milk Buns?

These buns pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them great for breakfast or afternoon snacks.

How do I prevent my buns from drying out?

Storing them in an airtight container helps maintain moisture. Reheat gently before serving to keep them soft.

Final Thoughts

Red Bean Milk Buns offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that elevate any meal. Their sweetness makes them perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat with your favorite beverage. Feel free to customize your filling based on personal preferences—there’s no limit to what you can create!