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Japanese Milk Buns

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Japanese Milk Buns are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened rolls made with milk, cream, and butter for an ultra-tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast, dinner, or snacks, they’re a delicious homemade treat.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 buns

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warm (about 110°F)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, at room temperature
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by mixing warm milk with sugar and sprinkling yeast on top. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture, cream, egg, and butter.
  3. Knead dough by hand or stand mixer for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down dough, divide into 12 portions, and shape into smooth balls.
  6. Place balls in a greased dish, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Brush tops with milk or egg wash and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
  9. Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Add vanilla extract or sweet/savory fillings like red bean paste or cheese.
  • Ensure full kneading and proper rise time for fluffiest texture.
  • Use instant yeast directly in dry ingredients if preferred.
  • Milk or egg wash gives a glossy, golden finish.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Japanese
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bun
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 170mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg