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Mom’s Homemade Buns Recipe

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3.9 from 1 review

Classic homemade buns with a soft, fluffy texture perfect for sandwiches and burgers. This recipe uses warm water and yeast for a perfect rise, enriched with butter and sugar for a tender crumb and golden crust.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 22 servings (buns)
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Yeast Mixture

  • ½ cup warm water (105-110 °F—warm but not hot)
  • 1 tablespoon instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

Dough

  • 2 cups warm water
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 6-7 cups all-purpose flour

Optional

  • Salted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together ½ cup warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until bubbly to ensure the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare Dough Mixture: In a stand mixer bowl or large bowl if kneading by hand, whisk together 2 cups warm water, melted butter, ⅓ cup sugar, and salt. Add the bubbly yeast mixture and stir to combine.
  3. Knead the Dough: Attach the dough hook to the stand mixer. Add flour 1 cup at a time, starting with 4 to 5 cups, mixing until each addition is incorporated. Continue adding flour until the dough forms a smooth, soft ball that is slightly tacky but not sticky, using 6 to 7 cups total.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased large bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and set in a warm, draft-free spot (such as the oven with the light on). Let it rise for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape Buns: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and roll out into 20 to 24 rounds. Smooth the tops and pinch the seams on the back to seal.
  6. Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on the baking sheet and let rise uncovered in a warm spot for 30 to 60 minutes until doubled again.
  7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 18 to 22 minutes or until light golden brown. Bake time may vary depending on the size of the buns.
  8. Finish: For a golden and flavorful top, brush each bun with melted salted butter after removing from the oven. Allow buns to cool completely before storing.

Notes

  • Proofing yeast is optional if using instant yeast, but it helps confirm yeast activity.
  • Use warm water to activate yeast but avoid hot water to prevent killing it.
  • Adjust flour quantity as needed to achieve soft dough; dough should be tacky but not sticky.
  • You can store cooled buns at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Butter brushing after baking adds a rich flavor and shiny crust, but can be omitted for a lighter finish.