How to Make Hamburger Buns from Scratch: A Delicious Homemade Recipe

Nothing beats the taste of fresh, homemade hamburger buns! Soft, fluffy, and with just the right amount of chewiness, homemade buns elevate any burger to a whole new level. Store-bought buns often contain preservatives and unnecessary additives, but making your own allows you to control the ingredients and enjoy a fresher, tastier result.

This guide’ll show you how to make the perfect hamburger buns from scratch. Whether grilling up juicy burgers, making pulled pork sandwiches, or crafting the ultimate veggie burger, these buns will be the perfect base.

Why Make Your Own Hamburger Buns?

Homemade hamburger buns are:

✔ Fresher – No preservatives, just real ingredients.

✔ More flavorful – A rich, buttery taste you won’t find in store-bought options.

✔ Customizable – Make them whole wheat, top them with sesame seeds, or adjust the size for sliders or jumbo burgers.

✔ Softer and fluffier – Perfectly baked to be sturdy yet tender.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
3 tablespoons butter, softened

For the Egg Wash:

1 egg
1 tablespoon milk

Optional Toppings:

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine the flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface (or use the dough hook attachment on a stand mixer) for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Buns

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
Gently flatten each ball slightly to give them a classic bun shape.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let the buns rise for another 30–45 minutes. They should puff up nicely.

Step 6: Egg Wash & Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush them lightly over the tops of the buns.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds or other toppings if desired.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy!

Let the buns cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for the Best Homemade Buns

✔ Use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.

✔ Let them cool completely before slicing to keep them from becoming too dense.

✔ Brush with butter after baking for an extra-soft crust.

✔ Make them ahead! These buns freeze well for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Once you taste these homemade hamburger buns, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again! They’re easy to make, taste amazing, and take your burgers to the next level. Try this recipe the next time you’re planning a cookout or burger night, and let us know how they turn out!