Introduction

Red Bean Milk Buns are soft, fluffy, and filled with sweet red bean paste, making them a delightful treat for any time of day. These comforting buns combine a tender milk-flavored dough with a classic sweet filling, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.

The image shows three round bread rolls shaped like flowers on a white plate with ridged edges, placed on a white marbled surface. Each roll has six segments with a golden-brown shiny crust, sprinkled with white sesame seeds in the center. The bread pieces have a soft and slightly glossy texture. In the top right corner, part of a wooden tray holds more bread rolls of similar shape and color. A small metal bowl of sesame seeds is visible on the left side near a red cloth with white stripes. A pair of golden scissors is partially seen on the bottom right. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

18 ounces sweetened red bean paste
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
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

Instructions

Step 1: In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine bread flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, and milk powder. Add warm whole milk, warm heavy cream, and the egg. Knead on low speed for 10 minutes until the dough is tacky but elastic. Do not add extra flour. Cover and let it rest in a warm place for 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Lightly flour a work surface and divide the dough into 9 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by folding the sides underneath and pinching to seal. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to keep moist.
Step 3: Gently stretch each dough ball into a 4-inch circle, keeping the center thicker. Place about 1/4 cup of sweetened red bean paste in the center. Bring the edges of the dough up and pinch them together to seal the filling inside. Roll the sealed bun between your hands to smooth the surface. Place each bun seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all pieces.
Step 4 (Optional): Dust your hands with a little flour and gently press down on each bun to flatten slightly. Use scissors to make 5 slits around the edge of the dough to create a flower shape.
Step 5: Let the buns rise in a warm area for 30 minutes to 1 hour, until nearly doubled in size. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and whole milk. Brush the mixture evenly over the tops of the buns and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and cooked through. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use warm liquids (milk and cream) to help activate the yeast and develop a soft dough.
If you prefer a less sweet bun, reduce the sugar slightly in the dough or choose a less sweet red bean paste.
For allergy-friendly options, substitute milk with plant-based alternatives and use egg replacers for the wash.
Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds inside the filling for extra texture and nuttiness.

Storage

Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave before serving to restore softness.

How to Serve

The image shows round, flower-shaped bread rolls with a golden brown top and a soft texture. Each roll has six cuts around the edge that open slightly to show a dark filling inside. White sesame seeds are sprinkled in the center of each roll. Three of these rolls are placed on a white plate with a ribbed edge, and one roll sits nearby on a white marbled surface. A cup filled with sesame seeds and a pink cloth with white stripes are also visible near the plate, along with part of a wooden tray holding more rolls in the upper right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough by hand without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. The process may take more time but will yield the same results.

What can I use instead of sweetened red bean paste?

You can substitute with other sweet fillings like smooth sweetened black sesame paste, custard, or even chocolate spread for a different twist on these milk buns.