Bao buns—also known as steamed buns or baozi—are beloved for their cloud-like texture and versatility. Whether filled with savory pork belly, crispy chicken, vegetables, or sweet custard, homemade bao buns take any meal to the next level. If you want to make the best bao buns recipe ever, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve perfectly soft, fluffy buns right in your own kitchen.
This recipe is beginner-friendly and ideal for home cooks in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
What Makes the Best Bao Buns?
The secret to perfect bao buns lies in:
Soft, elastic dough
Proper yeast activation
Gentle steaming
Resting time for maximum fluffiness
With the right technique, homemade bao buns are far better than store-bought.
Ingredients
For the Bao Bun Dough
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 cup warm milk or water (110°F / 43°C)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2½–3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Optional Fillings
Braised pork belly
Crispy chicken
Mushrooms and tofu
Pickled vegetables
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, mix warm liquid, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add oil, salt, baking powder, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Add more flour as needed.
Step 3: Knead
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft, not sticky.
Step 4: First Rise
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Bao Buns
Punch down dough and divide into 10–12 pieces. Roll each piece into an oval, brush lightly with oil, and fold in half.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place buns on parchment paper and let them rise for 20–30 minutes.
Step 7: Steam the Buns
Steam over boiling water for 10–12 minutes, keeping the lid covered. Turn off heat and let buns rest for 2 minutes before opening the lid.
Tips for Perfect Bao Buns
✔ Use warm—not hot—liquid for yeast
✔ Don’t overfill buns
✔ Keep the steamer covered during cooking
✔ Let buns rest before opening the lid to avoid collapse
✔ Steam in batches to prevent overcrowding
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Skipping the second rise
❌ Opening the steamer lid too early
❌ Using cold dough
❌ Overkneading or adding too much flour
Bao Bun Variations
Classic Taiwanese Gua Bao
Filled with pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and crushed peanuts.
Vegetarian Bao
Stuff with mushrooms, hoisin sauce, and fresh herbs.
Sweet Bao Buns
Fill with custard, red bean paste, or chocolate spread.
Storage and Reheating
Store steamed buns in the fridge for up to 3 days
Freeze for up to 2 months
Reheat by steaming for 2–3 minutes
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a main dish or appetizer
Pair with stir-fried vegetables
Add fresh herbs, chili sauce, or sesame seeds
Why This Is the Best Bao Buns Recipe Ever
Soft, fluffy texture every time
Simple ingredients
Foolproof steaming method
Customizable fillings
Conclusion
If you’ve ever wanted to make the best bao buns recipe ever, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Soft, pillowy, and endlessly versatile, bao buns are perfect for family dinners, parties, or special occasions. Once you master this method, you’ll want to make them again and again. 🥟✨