Name: Homemade Burger and Hot Dog Buns Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup milk; ½ cup water; ¼ cup butter; 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons white sugar; 1 (0.25 ounce) package instant yeast; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 1 large egg

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Whether you’re craving classic burgers or delicious hot dogs, homemade buns make all the difference. This versatile recipe creates soft, golden buns perfect for any sandwich. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have fresh buns ready in no time.

A round wooden board holds a variety of bread on a white marbled surface. There are five bread pieces: three soft, round buns topped with sesame seeds, showing their golden brown crust and light, fluffy inside on one sliced bun; two long, smooth bread rolls with a light golden crust, one of them cut open lengthwise revealing a soft white middle. A beige and white striped cloth is casually placed in the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup milk
½ cup water

¼ cup butter
4 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons white sugar
1 (0.25 ounce) package instant yeast

1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 large egg

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the milk, water, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until very warm, about 120°F (50°C).

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together 1 3/4 cups of the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
Step 3: Pour the warm milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until combined.
Step 4: Mix in the egg, then gradually add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
Step 6: For burger buns, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a smooth ball, place on a greased baking sheet, and flatten slightly. Cover and let rise for 30 to 35 minutes.
Step 7: For hot dog buns, divide the dough into 16 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a 6×4-inch rectangle, roll tightly starting from a long side, pinch edges and ends to seal, place on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 9: Bake the buns in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 10 to 12 minutes.

Tips & Variations

Brush the buns with melted butter right after baking for a softer crust and richer flavor.

For a slightly sweet twist, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking.
If you prefer, substitute whole milk for a richer taste or use a dairy-free milk alternative.
Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free spot to ensure proper proofing.

Storage

Store cooled buns in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the buns in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes or toast as desired.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a tray filled with golden-brown bread rolls, each roll having a slightly different shape but all showing a soft, slightly shiny crust. The rolls are arranged tightly together in rows, resting on a white parchment paper that covers the tray. The surface of the rolls has a smooth texture with small cracks and a light dusting of flour or powder on top, showing a freshly baked look. The background is a white marbled texture, and a white and black checked cloth is partially visible in the upper right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but be sure to proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar for about 5-10 minutes before mixing it with the flour and other ingredients.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. After the initial kneading, you can refrigerate the dough tightly wrapped for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature and rise before shaping and baking.