1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, salt, and beaten egg. Gradually add the flour, mixing well after each addition, until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped buns with a damp cloth and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Egg Wash (Optional):
- If you want a shiny finish, whisk together one egg and a tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash.
9. Bake:
- Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
10. Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Once cooled, they are ready to be filled with your favorite ingredients or enjoyed as is.
Tips:
- You can experiment with different toppings such as sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added flavor and texture.
- For a sweeter variation, you can increase the sugar in the dough.
Enjoy your homemade soft buns! They’re perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or even as a side with soups and salads.