Name: Beautiful Homemade Burger Buns Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups (420g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour; 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (198g) water, lukewarm; 2 tablespoons (28g) butter, at room temperature; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1 1/4 teaspoons table salt; 1 tablespoon (9g) instant yeast; 3 tablespoons (43g) butter, melted; divided; 1 large egg white, whisked with 2 tablespoons cold water; Sesame seeds, or seeds of your choice

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into the softest, fluffiest burger bun packed with just the right touch of buttery goodness, this Beautiful Homemade Burger Buns Recipe is here to make that dream come true. Baking your own buns at home means you control every ingredient, every texture, and every bit of flavor, turning your burgers into an extraordinary experience. Forget the store-bought versions; these buns are pillowy, slightly sweet, and perfectly golden, making every burger moment feel like a cozy celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two clear glass bowls on a white marbled surface. Each bowl contains a round ball of pale dough with a smooth texture. The dough in the left bowl is smaller and tighter, while the dough in the right bowl has grown larger and looks softer and puffier, showing that it has risen. The lighting is soft and natural, giving a clean look to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Beautiful Homemade Burger Buns Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create that tender crumb, desirable rise, and buttery crust that make these buns stand out. From the unbleached flour for structure to the instant yeast for a reliable rise, every component plays a crucial role in building the perfect homemade bun.

3 1/2 cups (420g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour: Provides the ideal gluten structure for soft yet sturdy buns.
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (198g) water, lukewarm: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough for softness.
2 tablespoons (28g) butter, at room temperature: Adds richness and enhances tenderness in the crumb.
1 large egg: Contributes to the bun’s richness and deepens the golden color.
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Delivers a subtle sweetness that balances the savory fillings.
1 1/4 teaspoons table salt: Elevates flavor and controls yeast fermentation.
1 tablespoon (9g) instant yeast: Ensures a reliable and quick rise without fuss.
3 tablespoons (43g) butter, melted; divided: Gives the finished buns a buttery, satiny crust that you’ll love.
1 large egg white, whisked with 2 tablespoons cold water: Helps seeds stick beautifully to the top of buns.
Sesame seeds, or seeds of your choice: Adds delightful texture and a nutty flavor twist.

How to Make Beautiful Homemade Burger Buns Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by weighing your flour for accuracy, or gently spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for consistent results. Combine all the dough ingredients—flour, water, softened butter, egg, sugar, salt, and instant yeast—in a large bowl. Knead these together until the dough is soft and smooth, whether by hand, mixer, or bread machine. This is where the magic begins as gluten develops, forming the elastic network that will trap air and give your buns their perfect rise.

Step 2: First Rise

Cover your dough to keep it cozy and let it rise in a warm spot until it nearly doubles in size, about 1 to 2 hours. This fermentation step allows the yeast to work its magic, creating bubbles that contribute to the light, airy texture. Patience here really pays off in producing buns that are tender rather than dense.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

Gently deflate the dough to release excess gas, then divide it into eight even pieces, roughly 100 grams each. Shape each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten each ball gently with your palm until it’s about 3 inches in diameter. Taking your time to create evenly sized buns ensures they bake uniformly with that inviting dome shape.

Step 4: Second Rise

Place the shaped buns on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough room for expansion. Cover and let them rise again until noticeably puffy, about one hour. This second proof is key to that tender crumb and light texture. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking.

Step 5: Add the Butter Glaze and Seeds

Brush the tops of your buns with half of the melted butter to promote a golden crust. If you want seeded buns, paint the egg white and water mixture right over the butter; this tacky glaze ensures your favorite seeds stick beautifully and add extra flavor and crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the buns in your preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they reach a perfect golden-brown color. Once out of the oven, brush them immediately with the remaining melted butter for that irresistible shiny, buttery finish. Be gentle if your buns are seeded — you want to avoid brushing the seeds right off.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow your buns to cool completely on a rack before slicing horizontally. This resting time allows the crumb to set so your buns don’t squish when you build your burger. Now they’re ready to be the foundation of your juicy burgers or any cherished sandwich creation.

How to Serve Beautiful Homemade Burger Buns Recipe

A white plate holds a pile of golden brown burger buns topped with white sesame seeds, showing a soft and shiny crust. One bun is sliced open on a white marbled surface next to the plate, revealing a light, fluffy, and airy inside texture. A serrated knife with a wooden handle lies nearby, and a folded black and white striped cloth is partially visible. The overall scene is bright and clean, with natural light emphasizing the warm tones of the buns. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top off your buns with traditional sesame seeds or get creative with poppy seeds, chia seeds, or even everything bagel seasoning. These finishes not only add visual appeal but also introduce delightful texture and subtle nutty flavors that elevate each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve your burgers made with these buns alongside classic fries, crispy onion rings, or a fresh garden salad. Homemade pickles or a tangy coleslaw can also provide great balance and crunch, turning a simple meal into a full experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try mini slider versions of the Beautiful Homemade Burger Buns Recipe for parties or family gatherings. Stuff them with a variety of fillings—from plant-based patties to pulled pork—to showcase versatility. Don’t forget a dollop of your favorite sauces for an extra splash of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover buns tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for several days, perfect for quick sandwiches or toasting for breakfast.

Freezing

To keep your buns longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then stored in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat buns by warming them briefly in the oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes. For a softer texture, wrap them in foil before heating. You can also toast the buns with a little butter for extra flavor and crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for the buns?

While King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour works best for its protein content and consistent results, you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture or a blend including whole wheat for a nuttier flavor. Just know the texture and rise might vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use instant yeast?

Instant yeast is convenient because it doesn’t require proofing and gives a reliable rise. However, active dry yeast can be used if proofed first in warm water with a bit of sugar. Adjust rising times as necessary since it may work a bit slower.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, cover it tightly, and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, bring it to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the second rise. This slow fermentation can enhance the flavor even more.

What if I don’t want seeded buns?

No problem! You can skip the egg white wash and seeds entirely for plain buttery buns. They’ll still be delicious and perfect for holding all your favorite burger fillings without extra toppings.

How large are the buns made from this recipe?

Each bun is about 3 inches in diameter after shaping and rising, making them perfect standard-sized burger buns. You can make them smaller for sliders or larger for hearty sandwiches by adjusting the dough portion size accordingly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into a burger with buns you made from scratch, and this Beautiful Homemade Burger Buns Recipe makes that both achievable and downright enjoyable. The soft crumb, buttery richness, and gentle sweetness will have you wondering why you ever settled for store-bought. Don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and get baking—your next unforgettable burger night awaits!