Soft and Fluffy 4-Inch Hamburger Buns

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Here’s a simple recipe to make soft and fluffy 4-inch hamburger buns at home:

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🍔 Ingredients (makes about 8 buns):

• 3/4 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons warm milk
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg (for dough)
• 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• Optional: sesame seeds

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🔧 Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• 4-inch round cookie cutter or ring mold (for uniform size – optional)
• Parchment paper

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🥣 Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast:

In a small bowl, combine:

• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons warm milk
• 2 teaspoons yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the dough:

In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl:

• Add 2 1/2 cups flour
• Add 1 teaspoon salt
• Add 1 egg and 2 tablespoons softened butter

Pour in the foamy yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 6–8 minutes (or 4–5 minutes in a mixer) until smooth and elastic.

3. First rise:

Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.

4. Shape into 4-inch buns:

Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball. Flatten slightly to about 4 inches wide.

Place buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 1.5 inches apart.

💡 Tip: Use a 4” biscuit cutter or mold to press and shape for perfect size.

5. Second rise:

Cover loosely and let rise for another 45 minutes until puffy.

6. Apply egg wash & toppings:

Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush over each bun for a golden finish. Add sesame seeds if desired.

7. Bake:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Cool:

Let buns cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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✅ Optional Adjustments:

• Add 1 tablespoon olive oil for a slightly different flavor.
• Substitute half the flour with bread flour for chewier texture.

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