Stovetop Custard Cream Buns: Soft, Pillowy, and Oven-Free

Author: [sofia]
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10 buns
Course: Dessert, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Asian

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, pillowy bun filled with silky, homemade custard cream—and all without turning on the oven. These Stovetop Custard Cream Buns are a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack.

Inspired by Asian bakery classics, these buns feature fluffy dough made with yeast, milk, and butter, paired with a rich, creamy custard infused with vanilla. Cooking them on the stovetop with gentle steam produces a soft, tender bun reminiscent of traditional steamed buns, yet quick and easy enough for home cooks.

This recipe is versatile, customizable, and approachable, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. You can even experiment with different custard flavors such as chocolate, coffee, matcha, or fruit jams for a unique twist every time.

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Ingredients

For the Buns:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup milk, warmed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Custard Cream:

• 4 egg yolks
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Heavy-bottomed skillet or pan with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2. Warm the milk until lukewarm and melt the butter. Add to the dry ingredients along with the egg.
3. Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead by hand or with a stand mixer for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm spot for 30 minutes until doubled in size.

Tip: Make sure the milk is not too hot, or it may kill the yeast. Aim for around 100–110°F (37–43°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Cream

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Heat milk in a small saucepan until steaming, but not boiling.
3. Temper the eggs by gradually pouring a small amount of the hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents curdling.
4. Return the tempered mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and let cool.

Tip: For a richer flavor, you can replace some of the milk with cream.

Step 3: Assemble the Buns

1. Divide the dough into 8–10 equal discs.
2. Spoon custard cream into the center of each disc. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges to seal tightly.
3. Place the buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined skillet.

Tip: Make sure to seal the buns properly to avoid custard leakage during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Buns

1. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Arrange buns with some space in between. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the pan and immediately cover with a lid.
3. Steam-cook for 8–10 minutes, until buns are firm and cooked through. Adjust timing if making mini buns.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

Tip: For mini buns, divide the dough into 15–18 portions and reduce cook time to 6–7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm and fresh for breakfast or dessert.
• Pair with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a comforting snack.
• Serve with fruit compote or chocolate drizzle for added indulgence.

Tips & Tricks

• Dough and custard can be prepped a day ahead and refrigerated. Assemble and cook when ready.
• Custard can be flavored with chocolate, matcha, coffee, coconut, lemon, or berry jam.
• Keep heat low while steaming to avoid burning or bursting the buns.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Nutrition Information (Per Bun)

• Calories: 215 kcal
• Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg

A satisfying and indulgent treat that balances soft, fluffy dough with rich, creamy custard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the dough and custard in advance?
Yes! Both can be prepared a day ahead. Store the dough in the refrigerator and the custard covered with plastic wrap. Assemble and cook when ready.

2. Can I bake the buns instead of steaming?
Yes, they can be baked at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes. The texture will be slightly different, with a firmer crust rather than soft, steamed bread.

3. Can I make mini buns?
Absolutely! Divide the dough into 15–18 small portions. Steam for 6–7 minutes until cooked through.

4. How do I prevent the custard from leaking?
Make sure to seal the buns tightly. Pinch edges firmly and place them seam-side down on the skillet.

5. Can I use flavored custard?
Yes! Chocolate, coffee, matcha, coconut, lemon, or fruit jam all work beautifully. Adjust sugar slightly if using sweetened flavors.

6. Can these buns be frozen?
Yes, after cooking and cooling, freeze in a single layer with parchment between buns. Reheat by steaming or microwaving gently.

Conclusion

Stovetop Custard Cream Buns are a quick, indulgent, and versatile treat that bring the bakery experience into your home without needing an oven. Soft, fluffy buns combined with creamy, silky custard make for a delightful breakfast, snack, or dessert.

With easy-to-follow steps and customizable fillings, these buns are perfect for experimenting with flavors or making ahead for gatherings. Once you master this stovetop method, you’ll find yourself reaching for these buns anytime you want a sweet, comforting treat that melts in your mouth.

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