As I stood in my kitchen, the sunshine streaming through the window, the thought of baking something delightful lit up my day. The lingering scent of melted butter and a hint of toasted coconut felt like a warm hug, drawing me back to memories of cozy afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite recipes: Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns. These delectable little treasures are nothing short of heavenly, boasting a fluffy exterior and a creamy coconut filling that brings smiles to everyone at the table.
With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create homemade buns that rival any bakery. Whether you’re looking for a special treat to share with loved ones or simply want to elevate your weekend brunch, these coconut buns are the perfect answer. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful baking adventure together, because there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a batch of warm, golden buns from the oven!
Why are Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns irresistible?
Fluffy Texture: Each bun is wonderfully soft, inviting you to take that first heavenly bite.
Delicious Filling: The creamy coconut center adds a rich, tropical flavor that delights the senses.
Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, impressing family and friends is a breeze!
Time-Saving: The hands-on prep is quick, making this recipe perfect for those busy days or spontaneous get-togethers.
Crowd-Pleaser: These buns are bound to become the star of any brunch or gathering. Dive into more delightful recipes to expand your baking repertoire!
Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns Ingredients
For the Filling
• 200 g butter – at room temperature, cubed for easy blending.
• 100 g sugar – adds sweetness that complements the coconut’s tropical flavor.
• 55 g plain flour – helps to bind the filling together for a smooth texture.
• 30 g corn flour – gives a lighter consistency and enhances the filling’s creaminess.
• 20 g milk powder – enriches the filling with a creamy taste.
• 40 g dried desiccated coconut – infuses the filling with a rich coconut flavor and delightful texture.
For the Dough
• 340 g bread flour – provides structure and elasticity, ensuring fluffy buns.
• 17 g milk powder – adds moisture to the dough for a tender bite.
• 7 g custard powder – lends a subtle flavor and a beautiful color to the buns.
• 7 g instant yeast – encourages the dough to rise beautifully.
• 3 g bread improver (optional) – helps achieve superior softness and texture if desired.
• 68 g sugar – sweetens the dough, enhancing the overall flavor of the buns.
• 38 g egg – binds the dough and adds richness; be sure to use a whole egg for accuracy.
• 7 g vinegar – improves dough tenderness and acts as a natural preservative.
• 176 g water – regulates dough hydration for a perfect consistency.
• 17 g milk – contributes to a softer dough and richer flavor.
• 34 g butter – incorporates richness and flavor into the dough.
• 3 g salt – balances sweetness and highlights the other flavors.
• Some white sesame seeds – for a finishing touch that adds texture and visual appeal.
These Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns are not just comforting but also a delightful centerpiece for any gathering. Happy baking!
How to Make Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns
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Cream the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. Then, mix in the plain flour, corn flour, milk powder, and desiccated coconut until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until firm.
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Prepare the Baking Tray: Line an 11 x 14-inch baking tray with baking paper to ensure easy removal of the buns after baking. This film of protection will help keep them from sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a clean mixer bowl, combine the bread flour, milk powder, custard powder, yeast, optional bread improver, and sugar. Whisk together gently, ensuring everything is well mixed.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the egg, vinegar, water, and milk. Beat one whole egg to measure 38 grams for the mixture and set aside the remainder for later use as an egg wash.
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Knead the Dough: Attach the dough hook to your mixer. Start on low speed to form a rough dough for about 1 minute. Then increase to medium-high speed, kneading until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl.
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Add Butter and Salt: Once the dough resembles a soft ball, add the butter and salt. Knead at medium-high speed for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Conduct the ‘Windowpane Test’ to check for proper elasticity.
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Divide and Shape: Weigh the dough and divide it by 12 for evenly sized buns (around 58 to 60 g each). Shape each portion into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes.
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Fill the Buns: On a lightly dusted work surface, flip each ball smooth side down and flatten into a round disc. Place about 30 g of the prepared filling in the center, wrap it up, and seal. Arrange them on the baking tray, spaced about 1 inch apart for pull-apart style.
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Proof the Dough: Cover the tray with a tea cloth and let it proof in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the buns have doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) during this time.
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Bake and Serve: Gently brush the tops and sides of each bun with the reserved egg wash, then sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the buns are a deep golden brown.
Optional: Serve warm for the best experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients, especially butter, are at room temperature. This helps with better mixing and a fluffier texture.
Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This is crucial for achieving the soft and moist texture expected in these buns.
Perfect Proofing: Make sure to proof the dough in a warm place to help it rise properly. A blocked oven with the light on works great if the room is too cold.
Don’t Rush Filling: Let the filling chill sufficiently. It should be firm enough to hold shape, preventing leakage during baking.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the buns toward the end of the baking time. While you want a deep golden brown color, every oven is different!
Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for a month. Enjoy your delicious soft & moist bakery-style butter coconut buns later!
What to Serve with Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns?
These delightful treats are perfect on their own, but pairing them with complementary dishes elevates your meal to new heights.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of tropical fruits balances the richness of the buns; the freshness is incredibly refreshing.
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Coconut Milk Smoothie: Blend coconut milk with bananas and a hint of honey for a creamy drink that echoes the flavor of the buns.
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Herb-Infused Tea: The warmth of herbal tea, perhaps with a hint of mint or lemongrass, beautifully complements the sweet, buttery flavors, making for a soothing experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm buns with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the melting creaminess adds a delightful contrast to the warm, soft texture of the buns.
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Mini Quiches: Their savory profile can balance the sweetness of the buns, making for an exciting brunch spread that everyone will enjoy.
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Mango Chutney: A tangy chutney provides a zesty kick that enhances the coconut flavors, creating a fusion of tastes that excites the palate.
Next time you whip up these Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns, consider these flavorful pairings to create a memorable meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the coconut filling and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s well mixed and firm before wrapping the buns. Additionally, once shaped, the buns can be placed on the baking tray, covered, and refrigerated overnight. Just remember to allow them to proof for about 1 hour at room temperature before baking. For the best quality, brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds right before baking to maintain that delightful shine and golden color. You’ll have fresh, bakery-style buns with minimal effort on busy days!
Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful buns; let your tastebuds guide you to culinary bliss!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute bread flour for a gluten-free blend to make these buns suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
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Fruit-Infused: Add dried fruits like raisins or chopped pineapple to the filling for a burst of sweetness and tropical flair.
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Chocolate Lover’s: Mix in some chocolate chips along with the coconut filling for a delicious, decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil, use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of egg, and opt for plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly treat.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of coconut curry paste in the filling for a surprising, spicy twist that excites the palate.
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Nutty Texture: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or cashews, to the filling for an added crunch that beautifully contrasts the softness of the buns.
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Herb-Infused: Consider mixing chopped fresh herbs, like mint or cilantro, into the filling for an unexpected yet refreshing flavor profile.
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Coconut Cream Drizzle: After baking, top your buns with a drizzle of coconut cream glaze to elevate the experience with an extra layer of creaminess.
How to Store and Freeze Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns
Room Temperature: Enjoy these delicious buns fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their fluffy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe bag or container, allowing up to 1 month of freezer life. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat to enjoy!
Reheating: To maintain moisture, wrap buns in a damp paper towel before microwaving for 20-30 seconds or bake at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes.
Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right coconut for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting desiccated coconut, look for finely shredded versions that are unsweetened for a more authentic flavor. It should be dry and free from clumps. Avoid any bags that have dark spots, which can indicate rancidity. The fresher the coconut, the more fragrant and delightful your filling will be!
What’s the best way to store the Coconut Cream Buns?
To keep your Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For refrigeration, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge, where they can last for up to 3 days. Remember to reheat them gently in the microwave or oven before serving to restore their fluffiness.
Can I freeze the Coconut Cream Buns?
Yes, indeed! To freeze these delicious buns, first, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or a container with an airtight seal, and they can last for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and then reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes. This method helps retain their soft and moist texture.
How can I troubleshoot if my dough isn’t rising properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising as expected, check that your yeast is fresh and active. To test it, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar; it should become bubbly within 5-10 minutes. If it doesn’t, it’s time to get new yeast. Also, ensure you’re proofing the dough in a warm area – a draft-free spot works wonders. If the room is too cool, consider placing the dough in an oven with the light turned on for a little warmth.
Are there any allergy considerations with these buns?
Of course! The filling and dough contain dairy (butter and milk) and eggs, which can be allergens for some. If you’re making these for friends or family with allergies, consider substituting with non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk, and use a vegan butter option for the filling. Additionally, please ensure you’re using certified gluten-free bread flour if gluten is a concern.
What can I do if my filling is too soft?
If your coconut filling turns out too soft and loses shape, don’t worry! Chill the mixture for another 30 minutes to help it firm up further. Once it’s colder, you can re-whip it briefly and use it without any issues. For future reference, make sure to accurately measure your ingredients, especially the butter and sugar, as variations can affect consistency.
Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Mix in the plain flour, corn flour, milk powder, and prepped coconut until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until firm.
- Line an 11 x 14-inch baking tray with baking paper.
- Combine the bread flour, milk powder, custard powder, yeast, optional bread improver, and sugar in a clean mixer bowl. Whisk together.
- Pour in the egg, vinegar, water, and milk. Beat until combined and set remainder aside for an egg wash.
- Attach the dough hook and start mixing on low speed to form rough dough. Increase to medium-high speed, knead until the dough cleans the bowl sides.
- Add butter and salt to the dough; knead at medium-high speed for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Weigh and divide dough by 12. Shape each portion into balls and let rest for 10 minutes.
- On a flour-dusted surface, flatten each ball and place about 30g of filling in the center. Wrap and seal, arranging spaced on the tray.
- Cover with a tea cloth and proof in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size. Preheat oven to 200°C.
- Brush the tops with reserved egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.