Sweet Milk Bun Dough Recipe with Butter and Egg

Soft, enriched yeast dough for milk buns, cinnamon rolls or other sweet breakfast rolls.

Total 2 hr 10 minMakes 12 buns
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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

Prep 25 minCook 25 minTotal 2 hr 10 minYield 12 buns
Only numbered ingredient amounts change.

Equipment: Knife, cutting board, mixing bowl and suitable pan

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast

    Mix warm milk, yeast and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Rest 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.

  2. 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.

  3. First rise

    Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 60 to 90 minutes.

  4. Shape

    Gently deflate dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape into buns and place on a lined tray.

  5. Proof

    Cover and rise 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F).

  6. 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.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

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