Stovetop Custard Cream Buns are a soft, pillowy delight filled with smooth, rich custard cream. These buns, inspired by popular Asian bakery treats, are cooked entirely on the stovetop, making them accessible to everyone, even without an oven. The combination of fluffy bread and luscious vanilla custard creates a dessert or snack that’s hard to resist.
Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or dessert, Stovetop Custard Cream Buns are versatile and universally loved. With their soft texture and sweet filling, they’re ideal for sharing with family and friends. This detailed guide will walk you through every step, from making the custard and dough to achieving perfectly cooked buns on the stovetop.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Oven Needed: Perfect for those without an oven or during hot weather.
- Rich and Creamy Filling: The homemade custard is silky smooth and bursting with vanilla flavor.
- Soft, Fluffy Buns: The stovetop cooking method yields tender, evenly cooked bread.
- Customizable: Experiment with fillings like chocolate, fruit, or jam.
- Impressive Yet Simple: The process is straightforward, but the results look and taste bakery-worthy.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep time: 1 hour (including dough resting and custard chilling)
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 buns
- Serving size: 1 bun
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 12 g
Ingredients
For the Custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or unsalted butter (for greasing the pan)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Honey or glaze (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Custard
- Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam. Do not let it boil.
- Whisk the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour half of the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Cook the Custard: Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressed directly onto the surface), and refrigerate until completely cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Assemble the Buns
- Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
- Flatten and Fill: Flatten each dough ball into a 4-inch circle. Place a spoonful of chilled custard in the center of each circle. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal, forming a smooth bun.
- Rest the Buns: Place the buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined tray. Cover with a towel and let them rest for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Buns
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large, nonstick skillet over low to medium-low heat. Lightly grease with vegetable oil or butter.
- Cook the Buns: Place the buns in the skillet, leaving space between them. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 8-10 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown. Flip the buns and cook for another 6-8 minutes on the other side.
- Check for Doneness: The buns should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or brush with honey for added sweetness. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Ingredient Background
- Cornstarch in Custard: Ensures a thick, smooth texture without the risk of curdling.
- Active Dry Yeast: Creates a soft, fluffy dough with a light, airy texture.
- Egg Yolks: Add richness and creaminess to the custard.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and elasticity to the dough. Bread flour can be substituted for chewier buns.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the custard’s flavor with a subtle sweetness and aroma.
Technique Tips
- Custard Consistency: Stir the custard continuously while cooking to prevent lumps. If lumps form, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve.
- Seal the Buns Properly: Ensure the edges are fully sealed to prevent the custard from leaking during cooking.
- Low Heat Cooking: Cook the buns over low heat to ensure even cooking and avoid burning the exterior.
- Test for Doneness: Tap the bottom of a bun; it should sound hollow when fully cooked.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Mini Custard Buns: Divide the dough into smaller portions for bite-sized treats.
- Custard-Filled Rings: Shape the dough into rings and pipe custard into the center after cooking.
- Layered Custard Bread: Roll the dough flat, spread custard over the surface, roll it up, and cook as a loaf.
- Chocolate Custard Buns: Add cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolate variation.
- Matcha Custard Buns: Incorporate matcha powder into the custard for a green tea-flavored filling.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure the milk is around 110°F for activating yeast—too hot will kill the yeast.
- Chill the Custard: A chilled custard is easier to handle and less likely to leak during assembly.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Resting the buns after assembly allows them to rise slightly and improves texture.
- Keep the Lid On: Covering the skillet traps steam, ensuring the buns cook through evenly.
Recipe Variations
- Jam-Filled Buns: Replace custard with your favorite jam or fruit preserves.
- Savory Cheese Buns: Fill with shredded cheese and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Coconut Custard Buns: Add shredded coconut to the custard for a tropical twist.
- Nutella Buns: Use Nutella as the filling for a chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
- Lemon Custard Buns: Add lemon juice and zest to the custard for a zesty variation.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked buns for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or microwave.
- Reheating: Warm buns on a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Whole-Wheat Dough: Replace half the flour with whole-wheat flour for added fiber.
- Low-Sugar Custard: Reduce the sugar in the custard or use a sugar substitute.
- Plant-Based Version: Use almond milk and vegan butter in the dough and custard.
- Steamed Buns: Steam the buns instead of frying for a lighter version.
- Add Fruit: Include fresh fruit pieces in the filling for natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Afternoon Tea: Pair with tea or coffee for a sophisticated snack.
- Breakfast Treat: Serve with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey for a hearty breakfast.
- Party Platter: Arrange buns on a platter with dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel.
- Festive Brunch: Add colorful sprinkles or icing for a celebratory touch.
Special Equipment
- Nonstick Skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Pastry Brush: For brushing buns with glaze or butter.
- Fine Mesh Sieve: Helps achieve smooth custard.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bake these buns instead of cooking them on the stovetop?
Yes, bake at 350°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. - Can I use store-bought custard?
Yes, pre-made custard works, but homemade offers superior flavor. - How do I prevent custard leakage?
Ensure the dough is tightly sealed and chill the custard before filling. - Can I make the dough without yeast?
Yes, use a baking powder-based dough for a quicker alternative. - Can I steam these buns instead?
Absolutely, steaming yields a soft and fluffy texture.
Conclusion
Stovetop Custard Cream Buns are a delightful combination of fluffy bread and creamy custard, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them as a sweet breakfast, a tea-time treat, or a special dessert, these buns are sure to impress. With their versatility and ease of preparation, they’re a must-try for bakers of all skill levels. Gather your ingredients, fire up the stovetop, and treat yourself to these irresistible homemade buns!
Print
Stovetop Custard Cream Buns
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 buns 1x
Ingredients
Scale
For the Custard:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or unsalted butter (for greasing the pan)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Honey or glaze (for brushing)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Custard
- Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam. Do not let it boil.
- Whisk the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour half of the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Cook the Custard: Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressed directly onto the surface), and refrigerate until completely cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Assemble the Buns
- Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
- Flatten and Fill: Flatten each dough ball into a 4-inch circle. Place a spoonful of chilled custard in the center of each circle. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal, forming a smooth bun.
- Rest the Buns: Place the buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined tray. Cover with a towel and let them rest for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Buns
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large, nonstick skillet over low to medium-low heat. Lightly grease with vegetable oil or butter.
- Cook the Buns: Place the buns in the skillet, leaving space between them. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 8-10 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown. Flip the buns and cook for another 6-8 minutes on the other side.
- Check for Doneness: The buns should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or brush with honey for added sweetness. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 1 hour (including dough resting and custard chilling)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g