Are you craving a delightful treat that's both incredibly soft and bursting with coconut flavor? Look no further than these Chinese Cocktail Buns, also known as coconut buns! These fluffy, pillowy delights are incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weekend baking project, or a special breakfast treat. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to achieve perfectly golden-brown buns with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 250ml warm milk (around 105-115°F)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 400g bread flour, plus extra for dusting
- 50g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp salt
For the Coconut Filling:
- 100g desiccated coconut
- 50g granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the beaten egg to the activated yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment for about 6-8 minutes.
5. Add Butter: Gradually incorporate the softened butter into the dough, kneading until fully absorbed. This will create a richer and softer texture.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (with the light on) can be a great place for this.
7. Prepare the Coconut Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by combining desiccated coconut, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix well.
8. Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
9. Fill and Shape: Flatten each dough ball slightly. Add about 1-2 tablespoons of the coconut filling to the center. Gently pinch the edges together, sealing the filling inside.
10. Second Rise: Place the shaped buns onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffy.
11. Egg Wash: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk together the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash. Brush the buns generously with the egg wash.
12. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
13. Cool and Enjoy: Let the buns cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, but are still delicious at room temperature.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra sweetness: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough.
- Customize the filling: Experiment with other fillings such as red bean paste, chocolate chips, or cream cheese.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter.
- Freeze for later: Baked buns can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information (per bun, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 35-40g Protein: 5-7g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. These delicious Chinese Cocktail Buns are a perfect blend of easy recipes, healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, making them an ideal addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!