If you have ever wanted to elevate your burger game to a whole new level, then this Homemade Hamburger Buns with Sesame Seeds Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into a warm, soft, and fluffy bun that perfectly cradles your favorite burger and toppings, enhanced with a delicate crunch and toasty flavor from sesame seeds on top. These buns are not only delightful to eat but are also incredibly satisfying to make from scratch. Using simple pantry ingredients, you’ll create buns that rival any bakery, adding that impressive, freshly baked touch to your homemade burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a smooth, round ball of pale dough with a soft texture, covered loosely by clear plastic wrap. The bowl sits on a light brown wooden surface, but the background is changed to a white marbled texture. The dough looks fresh and ready to be used, with a slight shine on its surface that suggests it is moist and well-kneaded. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Making these buns starts with a handful of simple, essential ingredients that work together to build flavor, texture, and that inviting golden crust topped with sesame seeds. Each one plays a crucial role—from the yeast that helps the dough rise beautifully, to the butter that keeps the crumb tender and rich.

Warm water (3/4 cup): Activates the yeast and helps hydrate the dough for perfect rising.
Egg, room temperature (1): Adds richness and binds the dough for softness and structure.
Granulated sugar (3 Tbsp): Feeds the yeast and gives a touch of sweetness to balance the savory burger.
Fine sea salt (1 1/2 tsp): Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
Instant yeast, rapid rise (1 Tbsp): Quickens the dough’s rise to fluffy perfection.
Unsalted butter, softened (3 Tbsp): Creates a tender crumb with a buttery flavor everyone loves.
Unbleached all-purpose flour (3 1/4 cups + extra as needed): The foundation of your dough—adds structure and enables that soft, elastic texture.
Egg wash (1 egg + 1 Tbsp water): Gives the buns that irresistible shiny, golden crust.
Sesame seeds (1/2 Tbsp): Add a subtle nutty crunch and classic look atop your buns.

How to Make Homemade Hamburger Buns with Sesame Seeds Recipe

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

Begin by combining the warm water, egg, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Whisking this mixture for about one minute helps to activate the yeast and create a uniform base. Adding the softened butter next along with most of the flour allows you to bring the dough together. Use a dough hook or spatula to mix until the ingredients just come together, then knead for 5 to 6 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky but not overly wet. This tactile stage is crucial for that wonderful soft texture.

Step 2: First Rise

Cover your dough tightly with oiled plastic wrap so it doesn’t dry out and set it in a warm environment—like your oven with the light on—until it doubles in size. This usually takes about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, though a room temperature rise can take up to 2 hours. Seeing that dough nearly double is a delightful sign your buns will be light and airy.

Step 3: Shaping the Buns

Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and divide it evenly into eight pieces, roughly 100 grams each. Gentle rolling of each piece into smooth balls with your hand will help develop a tight skin for the buns. Then, flatten each ball to about a 3-3 1/2 inch diameter and space them evenly on a lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and allow a second rise until the buns puff visibly, around another hour or so. At this point, preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 4: The Golden Finish

Before baking, brush your buns generously with an egg wash mixture and sprinkle on sesame seeds. This not only adds a beautiful sheen but also gives the buns their inviting crust and signature look. Bake for 15 to 16 minutes until golden brown. Once out of the oven, transfer the buns to a rack to cool completely. Remember, wait to slice them until you’re ready to assemble your burger to keep the crumb moist and fresh.

How to Serve Homemade Hamburger Buns with Sesame Seeds Recipe

Five burger buns are shown on a gold cooling rack over a white marbled surface. Each bun is round with a shiny golden-brown top sprinkled with sesame seeds, except two buns which have a mix of black and white seeds. Some buns are placed with the top half flipped open, showing the soft, light beige inside texture. The buns look fluffy and freshly baked with smooth, glossy tops. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These buns shine with classic burger toppings like crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, melted cheese, and pickles, but don’t be afraid to get creative. A spread of garlic aioli or a dab of smoky barbecue sauce can enhance every bite. Sprinkling extra sesame seeds on top makes them look irresistible and adds a finishing touch to your presentation.

Side Dishes

Serving your burgers with freshly cut fries, sweet potato wedges, or a crisp coleslaw perfectly complements the soft texture of these buns. A side of pickled vegetables or a light salad balances richness and adds freshness that is simply unbeatable.

Creative Ways to Present

Try building sliders with mini versions of these buns or split and toast them lightly with butter before assembling your burger to create a slight crunch that holds up well against juicy patties and sauces. You can also use them for pulled pork sandwiches or even breakfast sandwiches with eggs and bacon for a versatile baking win.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your buns in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh. They should last a few days at room temperature, making them perfect for quick burger nights any day of the week.

Freezing

Homemade buns freeze beautifully. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready, thaw them on the counter or in the fridge overnight—ready to warm up and enjoy.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked softness and warmth, gently toast the buns in a skillet with a bit of butter or heat them in the oven wrapped loosely in foil. This helps refresh their texture and adds a lovely toasty flavor, perfect for your burgers.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it in the warm water with a pinch of sugar for about 5 to 10 minutes until frothy before mixing into the other ingredients. This extra step activates the yeast properly.

How important is the egg wash?

The egg wash gives the buns their shiny, golden crust and helps the sesame seeds stick well. If you prefer, you can omit it, but your buns will look less glossy and might lose some of the beautiful color and texture the egg wash provides.

Can I add other toppings besides sesame seeds?

Absolutely! Everything Bagel Seasoning is a fantastic alternative that adds a burst of flavor. You can also use poppy seeds, nigella seeds, or even omit toppings to suit your preferences.

How sticky should the dough be?

The dough should feel slightly sticky to your touch but not stick to your clean fingertips. If it’s too sticky, add a little flour a tablespoon at a time. The dough elasticity is a key factor in achieving a soft, airy bun.

Are these buns good for freezing and making ahead of time?

Yes, these buns freeze very well and can be made ahead. Freezing saves you time on a busy day, and reheating brings back their fresh-baked quality. Just keep them wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing like the satisfaction of biting into a burger made with a fresh-from-the-oven bun you baked yourself. This Homemade Hamburger Buns with Sesame Seeds Recipe is a game changer, turning an ordinary meal into something special and memorable. Once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for every burger night, impressing friends, family, and most importantly, yourself!

Homemade Hamburger Buns with Sesame Seeds Recipe