Few things compare to the simple pleasure of pulling warm, freshly baked buns straight from the oven. These fluffy rolls are light and soft making them a perfect choice for everything from breakfast sandwiches to dinner accompaniments. With a straightforward dough and a gentle rise, they deliver bakery-quality results right at home.
You can serve them plain, dusted with a touch of flour, or filled with your favorite ingredients. Regardless of how they are eaten, once you’ve tried them, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.
What Are Fluffy Buns?
Fluffy buns are yeast-based bread rolls that rise beautifully thanks to a combination of proper kneading and resting time. They are popular across many cuisines, including German Brötchen, Italian panini, or classic American dinner rolls.
Bread has been around for thousands of years, but the small, individual bun became popular because it was easier to portion, travel with, and pair with just about any meal. Early European buns were often baked in communal village ovens, which is why they usually came in neat, round portions, just like these!
Pro Tips for the Best Fluffy Buns
- Give the dough time to double, it’s the secret behind that irresistible fluffiness.
- A well-kneaded dough develops gluten strands that hold air pockets, making your buns light instead of dense.
- Place a small oven-safe dish with water in the oven while baking for an even softer crust.
- Dusting the top with flour before baking gives a rustic look and helps prevent over-browning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn’t my buns rise properly?
This usually happens if the yeast is old or if the dough was placed in a cold spot. Always check your yeast’s expiration date and let the dough rest in a warm, draft-free area.
How can I make the buns even softer?
Adding a tablespoon of butter or olive oil to the dough makes them extra tender and moist.
Can I make these buns without sugar?
Yes, but a little sugar helps activate the yeast faster and gives the buns a subtle sweetness. Without it, they’ll still rise, but the flavor will be less rich.
What can I serve with fluffy buns?
They’re perfect with soups, stews, or split open for sandwiches. For breakfast, try spreading with jam, butter, or honey.
How to Store Fluffy Buns
Keep leftover buns in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they start to lose their softness, just warm them briefly in the oven or microwave.
You can also freeze them by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Ingredients
How to Make 5-Ingredient Fluffy Bread Buns
In a bowl, combine the water, yeast, sugar, salt, and flour. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic.
In a bowl, combine the water, yeast, sugar, salt, and flour. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in the bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 2 hours.
Place the dough in the bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 2 hours.
Divide the dough into 10 equal parts and roll each portion into a smooth ball. Then, flatten them and shape into sandwiches.
Divide the dough into 10 equal parts and roll each portion into a smooth ball. Then, flatten them and shape into sandwiches.
Place the buns on a lined baking tray, cover, and let them rise again until they’ve doubled in size.
Place the buns on a lined baking tray, cover, and let them rise again until they’ve doubled in size.
Dust lightly with flour and use a sharp knife to make a small slash on top of each bun.
Dust lightly with flour and use a sharp knife to make a small slash on top of each bun.
Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F, bake the buns for 25–30 minutes, and serve warm.
Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F, bake the buns for 25–30 minutes, and serve warm.
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