Pineapple Bun Recipe: Your Easy Guide to Bakery Delight

Nothing quite compares to the sweet aroma and soft texture of a freshly baked Pineapple Bun, a staple in many Asian bakeries. Named for its unique topping that resembles the pattern of a pineapple's skin, this delightful pastry is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Below is your comprehensive guide to making these heavenly buns at home, complete with tips, techniques, and a recipe that's easy to follow.

What Makes Pineapple Buns Special?

Pineapple buns, or 'Bolo Buns,' are beloved for several reasons:

• Unique Topping: The topping, made from cookie dough, creates a crispy yet tender texture when baked.
• Soft and Fluffy: The bun itself is incredibly soft, making it a perfect balance with the crispy top.
• Simple Ingredients: Despite their sophisticated appearance, the ingredients are straightforward and often found in any home kitchen.
• Versatile: You can enjoy them plain, or with fillings like red bean paste or custard for added complexity.

The Pineapple Bun Recipe: Step-by-Step

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 200g bread flour
• 50g all-purpose flour
• 120g warm milk
• 30g sugar
• 10g milk powder
• 4g instant yeast
• 3g salt
• 1 large egg
• 25g unsalted butter, softened

For the Topping

• 120g all-purpose flour
• 75g powdered sugar
• 55g unsalted butter, softened
• 10g milk powder
• 1 egg yolk
• 15ml milk

Instructions

Making the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine bread flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, milk powder, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk and egg, then mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add the softened butter and continue kneading until the dough is shiny and elastic.
3. Form the dough into a ball, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Preparing the Topping

1. While the dough is rising, prepare the topping by mixing all the ingredients in a separate bowl until well combined.
2. Cover and chill the topping for at least 30 minutes to firm up slightly.

Assembly

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, divide into 8 equal parts, and shape each into a ball.
2. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
3. Divide the chilled topping into 8 parts. Roll each part into a ball and flatten it to a disc. Place the topping disc on top of each dough ball, pressing gently to stick.
4. Using a knife, score the topping in a crisscross pattern to mimic a pineapple’s skin.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Brush the topping with a little milk to give it a nice golden color when baked.
3. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the buns are golden brown on top.

👨‍🍳 Note: For a softer bun, increase the milk in the dough by 10ml and decrease the sugar. If you prefer a crisper topping, reduce the milk in the topping by 5ml.

This Pineapple Bun recipe ensures you get a soft, fluffy bun with a crispy, sweet topping. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the best experience, or pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of the day.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Buns

• Rise Time: Ensure your dough rises in a warm environment. A slightly heated oven or a warm spot in your kitchen works wonders.
• Topping Texture: Chilling the topping makes it easier to work with. If it becomes too hard to manage, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
• Pre-Baking: Brushing the topping with milk adds color, but an egg wash can also be used for a shinier finish.
• Storage: These buns are best enjoyed the day they are baked. However, you can reheat them in an oven to regain some of their freshness if storing for a short time.

In summary, crafting your own Pineapple Buns at home can be an incredibly rewarding culinary adventure. With this straightforward recipe, you've now got the knowledge to recreate the bakery experience in your kitchen, enjoying the delightful contrast of textures and flavors these buns offer.

Can Pineapple Buns be made without a stand mixer?

+

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand. It might take a little longer, but the result will be just as good.

Is there a substitute for milk powder in the recipe?

+

You can replace milk powder with an equal amount of regular milk, though it might alter the texture slightly.

Can I freeze Pineapple Buns?

+

Yes, you can freeze the buns. Wrap them well and store in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for best results.