Go Back
Homemade Chinese Steamed Buns recipe photo

Chinese Steamed Buns

Fluffy and versatile Chinese steamed buns that you can fill with savory or sweet ingredients. A rewarding homemade treat perfect for any occasion!
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 14 servings

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Dough scraper
  • Steamer
  • Rolling Pin
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil canola or vegetable, plus more for brushing
  • 14 squares parchment paper 4"x4"

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
  • Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the bowl of dry ingredients along with the cooking oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Add more flour if too sticky.
  • Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  • Punch down the dough to release air. Divide into 14 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball and flatten with your palm. Roll out to 4 inches diameter circles.
  • Add desired filling to the center of each circle. Gather edges and pinch to seal. Place buns seam side down on parchment squares.
  • Cover buns with a damp cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  • Bring water to a boil in steamer. Place buns on parchment in steamer basket with space between. Cover and steam for 15-20 minutes.
  • Remove buns from steamer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with soy sauce, chili oil, or favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Freeze steamed buns after cooking for up to 2 months; reheat by steaming.
  • Adjust flour amount when kneading to avoid sticky or dense dough.
  • Seal buns tightly to prevent filling from leaking during steaming.
  • Let dough rise fully for fluffy buns.
  • Experiment with sweet or savory fillings for variety.
Keyword Bao, Buns, Easy, Steamed, Yeast