Sweet Milk Bun Dough Recipe with Butter and Egg
Soft, enriched yeast dough for milk buns, cinnamon rolls or other sweet breakfast rolls.
This enriched milk dough makes soft, lightly sweet buns with butter and egg. The source provides a complete dough formula and first rise but omits a second proof after shaping. This version includes that rest so the buns bake lighter, and uses the second egg as an egg wash. Shape the dough into simple rounds or use it for cinnamon rolls or poppy-seed buns. Let the dough rise by appearance as well as time, since room temperature affects proofing. Mix warm milk, yeast and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Rest 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. Combine flour, remaining sugar, salt and vanilla sugar. Add yeast mixture, one egg and cooled melted butter. Knead 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Recipe card
Sweet Milk Bun Dough Recipe with Butter and Egg
Equipment: Knife, cutting board, mixing bowl and suitable pan
Ingredients
Instructions
Activate yeast
Mix warm milk, yeast and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Rest 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
Mix dough
Combine flour, remaining sugar, salt and vanilla sugar. Add yeast mixture, one egg and cooled melted butter. Knead 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 60 to 90 minutes.
Shape
Gently deflate dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape into buns and place on a lined tray.
Proof
Cover and rise 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake
Brush with beaten egg and bake 20 to 25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Cool on a rack.
How to tell when it is ready
Buns are golden and sound hollow when tapped; centre is fully baked.
Tips
- Milk should feel warm, not hot.
- Knead until smooth and elastic.
- Allow dough to double during first rise.
- Proof shaped buns until puffy before baking.
Troubleshooting
- If the mixture is too thick, add liquid a little at a time.
- If browning too quickly, lower the heat.
Substitutions
- Use a suitable neutral oil if needed.
- Choose a broth or seasoning that suits your dietary needs.
Variations
- Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
- Add a little citrus for brightness.
Serving suggestions
- Serve warm with butter.
- Offer honey or jam.
- Pair with tea or coffee.
- Use the dough for cinnamon rolls.
Make ahead
Measure ingredients ahead and finish cooking shortly before serving.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Food safety
Contains wheat, milk and egg. Use warm rather than hot milk; cool buns before storing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare this ahead?
Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly.
How should I store sweet milk bun dough?
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.
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