Soft Chinese Red Bean Buns With Sweet Fluffy Centers

Red bean buns are the soft steamed buns with sweet bean in the middle. I cook the bean thick so it stays put inside the fluffy dough instead of leaking out as they steam.

This recipe is simple to follow and results in light, airy buns that are perfect for steaming. Enjoy these savory-sweet buns with family or serve them at gatherings for a delightful addition to any meal.

Deliciously Fluffy Red Bean Buns

This Chinese red bean buns recipe offers a delightful combination of soft dough and sweet red bean filling. The buns are steamed to perfection, creating a soft texture that is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. The total time for this recipe is approximately 2 hours, including rising time, and it yields about 10 buns.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup red bean paste (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for the dough)
Extra flour for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix until a dough begins to form.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Coat with vegetable oil, place in a bowl, and cover. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal pieces (about 10). Flatten each piece, place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center, and fold the dough over to seal. Shape into a round bun.

Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on parchment paper squares, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Steam the Buns: Fill a steamer pot with water and bring to a boil. Place the buns in the steamer and steam for about 15 minutes until fluffy and cooked through. Ensure there is enough space between each bun to expand.
Serve: Remove the buns from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!