These soft and fluffy Pillow Buns filled with cheese and ham are perfect for kids’ bento boxes or a delicious snack for any time of day. The sweet stiff starter adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the buns, making them a delightful treat.
Recipe (Yields 9 Buns)
Sweet Stiff Starter:
- 30g active starter
- 90g bread flour
- 40g water
- 15g sugar
Dough:
- 230g bread flour
- 20g sugar
- 4g salt
- 110g milk
- 1 egg (55g)
- 20g butter
- All of the sweet stiff starter
Filling:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Chopped ham
Topping:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Melted butter
Pan Size:
- 11×11” (28cm x 28cm)
Method
- Prepare the Sweet Stiff Starter:
- Mix the active starter, bread flour, water, and sugar. Let it triple in volume, about 7-8 hours at 27-28°C.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Combine bread flour, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Add milk, egg, and all of the sweet stiff starter. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Gradually add butter and knead until fully incorporated and the dough achieves window pane.
- Bulk Proof:
- Bulk proof the dough for 2 hours at 28°C.
- Shape the Buns:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 9 equal portions.
- Flatten each portion and place a piece of mozzarella cheese and chopped ham in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling and shape into a ball.
- Place the shaped buns on a greased pan (11×11”) for the final proof, 3.5-4 hours at 28°C.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Brush the buns with egg wash and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Brush with melted butter after baking for extra flavor.
Enjoy these soft, cheesy, and savory buns fresh from the oven!