Bunny Custard Steamed Buns

Bunny Custard Steamed Buns are a delightful treat that combines soft, pillowy steamed dough with a creamy, sweet custard filling. These buns are often seen in Asian bakeries and dim sum restaurants, where their cute bunny shape makes them irresistible to kids and adults alike. The custard filling melts smoothly with every bite, creating a dessert that feels comforting and fun. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a festive brunch, or simply to brighten your day, these adorable buns are sure to bring smiles to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, playful, and customizable. You can make the buns in advance and steam them just before serving. The dough is soft and easy to work with, and the creamy custard filling is made from basic pantry ingredients. The bunny design adds a creative touch and makes these buns perfect for holidays, birthdays, and gatherings.

Nutritional Info (Approximate per Bun)

• Calories: 140–170
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Sugar: 9 g

Time Taken

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 2 hours

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Custard Filling:

• 1 cup milk
• 2 egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For Decoration:

• Small chocolate dots or melted chocolate
• Food-grade brush or toothpick

Instructions

Make the Custard Filling:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan until warm.
2. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook on low heat, stirring until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and salt.
6. Let the custard cool completely, then refrigerate to firm up.

Make the Dough:

1. Combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar and let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. Add flour, oil, and salt. Knead until you get a soft, smooth dough.
3. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Buns:

1. Divide the dough into small balls, about 12 equal portions.
2. Flatten each piece and add a spoon of custard filling in the center.
3. Pinch the dough closed and shape into smooth balls.
4. To make bunny ears, pinch two tiny dough triangles at the top of each bun.
5. Place buns on parchment paper and rest for 15 minutes.

Steam:

1. Heat the steamer and steam the buns for 12 to 14 minutes on medium heat.
2. Turn off heat and leave the lid slightly open for 1 minute before removing (prevents wrinkling).

Decorate:

• Use melted chocolate and a toothpick to draw eyes and a little nose on each bunny.

You Must Know

Do not lift the steamer lid during steaming or the buns may collapse. Letting the buns rest after steaming prevents them from becoming wrinkled.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a steamer for 3 to 4 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the buns chewy.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical flavor.
• Replace vanilla with almond extract or matcha for variation.
• Add food coloring for pastel-colored buns, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with tea, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk. These buns also pair nicely with fruit salads and breakfast platters.

Cultural and Historical Context

Custard buns are a classic treat in Cantonese dim sum cuisine, often known as nai wong bao. The bunny shape is a modern and playful twist inspired by seasonal celebrations like the Mid-Autumn Festival and Easter, symbolizing joy and festivity.

Seasonal Adaptations

During Easter, pastel coloring makes these buns especially charming. For winter holidays, add cinnamon or caramel into the custard filling.

Success Stories

Home bakers love making these buns as part of family activities or children’s cooking lessons. Many find it rewarding to watch the buns puff up like soft clouds and decorate them with cute expressions.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Shape the buns and freeze them raw on a tray. Once frozen, place them in a sealed bag. Steam directly from frozen for 18–20 minutes.

Pro Tips

• Knead the dough long enough for a smooth finish.
• Chill the custard so it’s easier to wrap inside the dough.
• Keep your workspace lightly floured to avoid sticking.

Chef’s Special Tips

Add a tablespoon of milk powder to the dough for extra softness.
For extra glossy ears, brush a tiny bit of milk before steaming.

Conclusion

Bunny Custard Steamed Buns are more than just a treat, they are a heartwarming experience to make and share. Their cute appearance and creamy sweetness make them a delightful dish for any celebration or cozy day at home. Try them once, and they’re sure to become a family favorite. If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with a friend or save it to your holiday cooking collection.

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