Ingredients
- 1/3 cup warm water
- 2/3 cup warm whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the warm water and warm whole milk. Heat gently until the temperature reaches about 110°F–115°F.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly so it does not kill the yeast. Mix the sugar and yeast into the warm mixture and allow to sit for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the warm liquid mixture and add vegetable oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add an extra tablespoon of warm water.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat the surface with oil. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 90 minutes).
- Punch down the risen dough and knead briefly. Roll it into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Using a round cutter (about 3–3 1/2 inches in diameter), cut out circles. Fold each circle in half to form a half-moon shape and gently press to seal, keeping a puffy appearance.
- Place each folded bun on a small square of parchment paper in a steamer basket, ensuring they have enough space (at least 1 inch apart). Cover and let rest for about 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Bring water to a simmer in a pot suitable for steaming. Place the basket over the simmering water (making sure the water does not touch the buns), cover, and steam for 10 minutes, or until the buns are fully puffed and cooked through. Work in batches if needed.
- Remove the buns carefully from the steamer. Serve warm, either plain or with your favorite fillings and dipping sauces.
- Let the buns cool slightly before serving to enjoy their soft, fluffy texture.