Ingredients
Cooking spray
1 1/4 c. milk, lukewarm
1 tbsp. plus 1 tsp granulated sugar, divided
1 (0.25-oz.) packet active dry yeast
5 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 c. water
3 tbsp. butter, softened
Egg wash, for brushing
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for topping (optional)
Preparation
Step 1Grease a large bowl with cooking spray. In a glass measuring cup or small bowl, combine lukewarm milk and 1 teaspoon sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes. Stir in yeast to dissolve. Step 2In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, stir together flour, remaining tablespoon sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture and water. Beat on medium speed and with mixer running, add butter 1 tablespoon at a time, making sure the butter fully incorporates before adding the next piece. Continue mixing until a smooth dough forms, at least 5 minutes. Transfer dough to greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rest until doubled, about 1 hour. Step 3Punch dough down to deflate and turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Step 4To make hamburger buns: Roll each piece of dough into a ball and flatten into a 3” round circle. Place on prepared baking sheet about ½” apart from each other. Step 5To make hot dog buns: Roll and stretch each piece of dough into a 4 ½” long cylinder, about 2” wide. Place on prepared baking sheet about ½” apart from each other. Step 6Cover dough and let rise another 45 minutes. Step 7Preheat oven to 400°. Brush buns with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired. Step 8Bake until golden, 20 minutes.
If you like buns that pull apart with soft sides, during the second the rise place them about 1" apart. If you want crispier edges, place them 3" apart. Have you made these yet? Let us know how it went in the comments below!
