Slider Buns are soft, fluffy, and perfectly sized for mini sandwiches or sliders, making them ideal for parties, BBQs, or game day snacks. These buns are light and slightly sweet, complementing a variety of fillings from juicy burgers to pulled pork or chicken. Making them from scratch is easy, and the fresh, homemade flavor adds a special touch to any slider creation. Whether you’re grilling up sliders or serving them with deli meats, these buns are the perfect base for bite-sized sandwiches everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional for topping)
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and activated.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-16 equal pieces, depending on your desired size. Shape each piece into a small ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped buns with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes until puffed.
- Prepare the egg wash: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water for the egg wash. Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired.
- Bake the buns: Bake the slider buns for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
These soft, homemade Slider Buns are perfect for any mini sandwich creation, bringing a fresh, bakery-style touch to your sliders!
