Homemade Hamburger Buns

A few months ago, I found this recipe for homemade hamburger buns.  Since then, I've made them three times.  My fourth attempt is currently in the bread machine.  If I could describe them in one word, it would be delicious.

After I make them, I wrap each one in foil and then place about five in a gallon size ziplock freezer bag.  Then I place them in the freezer.  When I want to use one or two, I pull them out of the freezer, unwrap them, and defrost them in the microwave.  My favorite sandwich that I make with them is a chicken patty, muenster cheese, and a tiny bit of olive oil based mayo.  Yum!

Homemade Hamburger Buns

via Hun . . . What's For Dinner??

Stars of the recipe:

• 3/4 to 1 cup lukewarm water


• 1 Tbsp. butter


• 1 large egg


• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour


• 1/4 cup sugar


• 1 and 1/4 tsp. salt


• 1 T instant yeast

 Steps:

1. Mix and knead all of the dough ingredients—by hand, mixer, or bread machine—to make a soft, smooth dough. - I do it in the bread machine.


2. If doing it by hand or mixer, cover the dough, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it's doubled in bulk.


3. Gently deflate the dough, and divide it into 8 pieces. Shape each piece into a round 1" thick (more or less); flatten to about 3" across. Place the buns on a lightly greased baking sheet, cover, and let rise for about an hour, until very puffy. - I divide mine into 12 pieces.


4. If desired, brush buns with melted butter. Or brush lightly with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water), and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds. - I omit this part


5. Bake the buns in a preheated 375°F oven for 12 to 15 minutes, till golden. Cool on a rack.

Makes 8 to 12 buns.

To defrost, place on a microwave plate.  Heat it up for a minute at 70% power.  If not defrosted, heat it up for 30 second intervals at 70% power.

This post has been linked up to Tempt My Tummy Tuesdays and Colleen's Kitchen Recipe Swap.