Red Bean Milk Buns

Fluffy and delightful, Red Bean Milk Buns are a treat for any time of day. These soft buns filled with sweetened red bean paste are perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or even as a dessert. Their unique flavor and texture make them a favorite among food lovers. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or as part of a lunch spread, these milk buns are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fluffy milk bread and sweet red bean paste creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these buns fit seamlessly into any meal.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can master this recipe in their kitchen.
• Customizable Shapes: You can shape the buns creatively—try making them into flowers or other fun designs!
• Great for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings or family meals, everyone will love grabbing one (or two) of these tasty treats.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make your Red Bean Milk Buns, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Gathering your equipment before starting will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool saves time and effort by kneading the dough evenly, ensuring a perfect texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to manage ingredients separately without mess.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface is crucial for baking the buns evenly without burning.

Ingredients

Fluffy milk bread with sweetened red bean paste. Perfect with your morning or afternoon coffee or tea!

For the Red Bean 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

Topping

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

How to Make Red Bean Milk Buns

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a stand mixer with a dough hook, combine the following:
1. Bread flour
2. Sugar
3. Salt
4. Instant yeast
5. Milk powder (if using)

Add in:
– Warm whole milk
– Warm heavy cream
– Egg

Knead on low speed for about 10 minutes until the dough is tacky but not sticky. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 2 hours until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Portion the Dough

On a floured work surface:
1. Divide the dough into 9 equal pieces.
2. Roll each piece into a ball by tucking in the sides towards the middle.
3. Cover loosely with plastic wrap.

Step 3: Form the Red Bean Buns

For each ball of dough:
1. Stretch it into a circle about 4 inches wide, keeping the center thicker.
2. Place 1/4 cup of red bean paste in the center.
3. Bring the sides up to seal around the filling and pinch securely.
4. Roll gently between your hands to smooth out any seams.
5. Place seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Repeat this process with remaining dough.

Step 4: Optional Flower Shape

If desired:
– Dust hands with flour and flatten each bun slightly.
– Use scissors to cut five slits into each bun for decoration.

Step 5: Second Rise

Let buns rest in a warm area for 30 minutes to an hour until they almost double in size. Preheat your oven to 350°F during this time.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake

Prepare an egg wash by mixing:
– Egg yolk
– Milk

Brush this mixture over each bun and sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking them in preheated oven for about 20 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm!

How to Serve Red Bean Milk Buns

Red Bean Milk Buns are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a snack, or a dessert, these fluffy buns pair wonderfully with different accompaniments.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your Red Bean Milk Buns alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the sweet flavors.

As a Breakfast Item

• Serve warm with butter or jam for a delicious morning meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.

With Fresh Fruits

• Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries or oranges to add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the buns.

At Afternoon Tea

• Include them on your afternoon tea spread as a unique and flavorful addition that guests will love.

Stuffed with Cream

• Fill them with whipped cream or mascarpone for a decadent dessert option that’s perfect for special occasions.

How to Perfect Red Bean Milk Buns

Achieving the perfect Red Bean Milk Buns requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Here are some suggestions to ensure success.

• Use warm liquids: Warm milk and cream help activate the yeast properly, leading to better dough rise.
• Don’t rush the rising: Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial; this ensures light and fluffy buns.
• Keep it tacky: Resist adding too much flour while kneading; a tacky dough leads to softer bread.
• Seal well: Make sure to pinch the dough tightly around the filling; this prevents any red bean paste from leaking during baking.
• Egg wash generously: A good egg wash gives your buns a beautiful golden color and adds shine.
• Let them cool slightly: Allowing the buns to cool for just a few minutes before serving enhances their flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Red Bean Milk Buns

Red Bean Milk Buns can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their enjoyment. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the buns.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy and crunchy side that pairs well.
3. Savory Soup: A light vegetable soup provides a comforting contrast to the sweet buns, making it an ideal pairing.
4. Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli or carrots can add color and nutrition to your meal alongside the buns.
5. Herbal Tea Infusion: Offer herbal teas infused with mint or chamomile as a soothing drink option that complements dessert flavors.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting sweet-and-savory experience when enjoyed with the buns.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red Bean Milk Buns is delightful, but a few missteps can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the kneading process: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the buns their fluffy texture. Don’t rush; knead for at least 10 minutes.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or cream can hinder yeast activation. Always use warm ingredients for better results.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can make the dough dry. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Over-proofing the dough: Allowing the dough to rise too long can result in dense buns. Monitor the dough closely; it should double in size, not triple.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture. Preheat your oven properly to ensure even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Freezing Red Bean Milk Buns

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Bean Milk Buns

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Steam in a steamer basket for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Red Bean Milk Buns.

What are Red Bean Milk Buns?

Red Bean Milk Buns are soft, fluffy bread filled with sweetened red bean paste, perfect for snacking or enjoying with tea.

How do I know if my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size during its first rise. A gentle poke should leave an indentation that doesn’t spring back quickly.

Can I customize the filling of Red Bean Milk Buns?

Yes! You can fill them with other sweet fillings like matcha paste, chocolate, or fruit preserves according to your preference.

How do I achieve a golden color on my Red Bean Milk Buns?

An egg wash before baking helps achieve that beautiful golden color. Brush with egg yolk mixed with milk for best results.

Can I make these buns vegan?

You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives and omit the egg for a vegan version of Red Bean Milk Buns.

Final Thoughts

Red Bean Milk Buns offer a delightful treat that’s both versatile and delicious. Their soft texture pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, making them ideal for any time of day. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this recipe your own!