A burger is only as good as its bun. That first bite, where everything comes together—the juicy patty, the fresh toppings and the soft, pillowy bread—makes all the difference. A perfect burger bun isn’t just a carrier for the fillings; it’s a key part of the texture and flavour of the burger. And when it’s soft, fluffy, and topped with a sprinkling of sesame seeds, it turns a simple burger into something truly special.
The perfect burger buns have a light texture, just firm enough to hold everything together without falling apart. It should be soft yet sturdy, with a delicate chew that complements the richness of the filling. A little sweetness in the dough enhances the flavour, creating a balanced bite from top to bottom.
Then, there’s the golden crust. A slight sheen on the surface gives the bun that bakery-fresh look, and a gentle crispness adds just the right amount of contrast. The sesame seeds on top? They’re more than just decoration. Their nutty flavour and subtle crunch bring an extra dimension to every bite. Plus, they give that classic burger bun appearance—just like the ones you find in your favourite burger joints.
The real beauty of well-made burger buns is how it complements any filling. Whether you’re making a classic beef burger, a crispy chicken sandwich, or a veggie option with grilled mushrooms and cheese, the right bun elevates it all. It absorbs just enough sauce without getting soggy, making every bite as satisfying as the first.
These buns aren’t just for burgers, either. They’re fantastic for breakfast sandwiches, filled with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon, or as the base for a gourmet pulled pork roll. The soft, slightly sweet dough pairs well with all sorts of flavours, making them a versatile choice for any meal.
There’s something special about a freshly baked burger bun, still warm from the oven. That inviting aroma, the slight crunch of sesame seeds, and the softness inside—it’s the kind of detail that turns a homemade burger into an unforgettable treat. The next time you’re planning a burger night, think beyond just the fillings. A great bun makes all the difference.
Perfect Burger Buns
Ingredients
- 500 g strong white bread flour
- 10 g salt
- 25 g sugar
- 10 g instant yeast
- 300 ml warm milk
- 50 g unsalted butter softened
- 1 large egg free range
- 1 large egg yolk for egg wash
- 1 tbsp milk for egg wash
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar and yeast, keeping the salt and yeast separate at first.500 g strong white bread flour, 10 g salt, 25 g sugar, 10 g instant yeast
- Add the warm milk, butter and egg, then mix until a dough forms.300 ml warm milk, 50 g unsalted butter, 1 large egg
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a lined baking tray, leaving space between them.
- Cover with a clean tea towel and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Whisk the egg yolk with 1 tbsp milk and brush over the buns. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.1 large egg yolk, 1 tbsp milk, 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.