Dessert

Red Bean Milk Buns Recipe

Name: Red Bean Milk Buns Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 18 ounces sweetened red bean paste; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for topping); 3 cups bread flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon instant yeast; 1 tablespoon milk powder (optional); 1 cup whole milk, warm; 1/3 cup heavy cream, warm; 1 whole egg; 1 egg yolk; 1 tablespoon whole milk

ByMaya bella February 28, 2026February 28, 2026

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Introduction

Red Bean Milk Buns are soft, fluffy, and filled with sweet, creamy red bean paste. These delightful buns combine a tender milk-based dough with a rich filling, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

The image shows six flower-shaped bread rolls with a golden-brown shiny crust and white sesame seeds sprinkled in the center of each. Each roll has six rounded segments that slightly pull apart, revealing a dark filling inside. Four rolls are on a round beige ridged plate, and two rolls are on a wooden tray in the top right. One roll is placed directly on the white marbled surface. There is a small bowl of white sesame seeds on the left and a red cloth with white stripes partially under the plate. A pair of golden scissors is visible in the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

18 ounces sweetened red bean paste
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
3 cups bread flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1 tablespoon milk powder (optional)
1 cup whole milk (warm)
1/3 cup heavy cream (warm)
1 egg
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon whole milk

Instructions

Step 1: In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine bread flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, and milk powder. Gradually add warm whole milk, warm heavy cream, and the egg. Knead on low speed for about 10 minutes until the dough is tacky; avoid adding extra flour. Cover the dough and let it rest for 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Lightly flour your work surface and divide the dough into 9 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pinching the sides toward the center. Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
Step 3: Gently stretch each dough ball into a 4-inch circle, keeping the center thicker. Place 1/4 cup of sweetened red bean paste in the middle. Gather the dough edges and pinch to seal the filling inside. Roll the bun gently between your hands to smooth the seam and form a round shape. Place the buns seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all pieces.
Step 4 (Optional): Dust your hands with a little flour and flatten each bun slightly. Use scissors to cut 5 slits around the edges for a decorative flower shape.
Step 5: Let the buns rise in a warm place for 30 to 60 minutes, until nearly doubled in size. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Whisk the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of whole milk. Brush this egg wash over the buns and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

For softer buns, you can substitute heavy cream with all-purpose milk or add a tablespoon of butter during mixing.
If you prefer less sweet buns, use unsweetened red bean paste and add a bit of honey to the dough.
Try decorating the buns with black sesame seeds for a contrasting look and flavor.
Allow buns to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess inside the container.

Storage

Store cooled red bean milk buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the buns in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat by warming in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or steaming briefly until soft.

How to Serve

The image shows round flower-shaped bread rolls with a glossy golden-brown crust and sprinkled white sesame seeds on top. Each roll has six petal-like sections that are slightly puffed and show a dark filling peeking through the slits between the petals, giving a layered look. The rolls sit closely on a white plate with a subtle textured rim, placed on a white marbled surface. A soft, red cloth lies partially under the plate, adding a cozy touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough by hand instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 15-20 minutes until smooth and elastic. It will take longer than using a mixer but works just as well.

Is sweetened red bean paste available in most grocery stores?

Sweetened red bean paste is often found in Asian grocery stores or online. You can also make it at home by cooking adzuki beans with sugar until soft and mashed.