The BEST Bao Buns Recipe & Video

In a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup lukewarm water (around 100°F), 1 teaspoon active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it looks all frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, mix together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking powder.

Add 1/4 cup milk and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the yeast mixture, then pour it into the flour mix.

Stir everything together until a soft dough starts to form.

Turn the dough out on a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until its smooth and a bit elastic.

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

After the dough has risen, punch it down to get rid of the extra air.

Divide the dough into small balls (about 10, depending on your preferred bao bun size) and flatten each into a circle.

Prepare a steamer with boiling water and line it with parchment paper, then steam each dough circle for about 8-10 minutes until they are soft and fluffy.

Allow the bao buns to cool slightly before stuffing them with your favorite fillings. Enjoy your homemade bao buns!