Mom's Homemade Buns

Step 1

In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the warm water, yeast and sugar.

Step 2

Let sit for 10 minutes or until bubbly -- this is how you know your yeast is working. This step is technically not required when using instant yeast, but I do it always anyways, so that I know my buns will be a success.

Step 3

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a very large bowl if you are kneading by hand), whisk together the 2 cups warm water, butter, 1/3 cup sugar and salt.

Step 4

Add the bubbly yeast mixture and stir to combine.

Step 5

Place the bowl in the stand mixer and put the dough hook on the machine. You can also knead by hand.

Step 6

Add the flour, one cup at a time, and mix until nearly combined before adding more. You can use all purpose or whole wheat or a combination. Start with 4-5 cups flour, mixing until each is incorporated.

Step 7

The closer you get to your dough being ready, the less flour you will add at once. We want a smooth, soft dough, never stiff, so we need to watch and stop adding flour at just the right moment.

Step 8

Add up to 6-7 cups flour total, very gradually at the end, until the dough comes together in a smooth, soft ball and does not stick to the sides of the stand mixer. When you touch it, it should be smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 9

Place dough in a large lightly greased bowl (you can use the same bowl and grease it), and cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.

Step 10

Set in a warm spot (I use the oven with the light on -- turn the oven on to preheat for 2-4 minutes before turning off and adding the dough) and let rise until doubled, about 1.5 hours.

Step 11

Uncover dough, punch down, and roll out 20-24 rounds -- smoothing the top and pinching the seam in the back to smooth (see video for additional details).

Step 12

Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and let rise (you don't have to cover them) in a warm spot for 30 to 90 minutes (instant yeast will be quicker) until doubled.

Step 13

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes, until light golden brown.