Easy Brioche Burger Buns Recipe
Easy Brioche Burger Buns Recipe is a medium American recipe that serves 8. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Backyahd BBQ on YouTube.
Prep: 2 hrs 23 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 2 hrs 58 min
Cost: $2.47 total, $0.31 per serving
Ingredients
- 250 g Bread Flour (All‑purpose or bread flour, sifted)
- 5 g Active Dry Yeast (1 tsp, proofed in warm milk)
- 4 g Salt (½ tsp, fine sea salt)
- 1 Large Egg (Room temperature)
- 120 ml Whole Milk (Warm to 38°C (100°F))
- 30 g Honey (2 tbsp, liquid)
- 50 g Unsalted Butter (Softened, cut into small pieces)
- 1 Egg Wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water)
- 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds (Lightly toasted optional)
Instructions
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, active dry yeast, and salt until evenly distributed.
Time: PT30S
Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, warm milk, and honey to the dry mixture. Mix on low speed with the flat beater attachment until a shaggy dough forms, about 30 seconds.
Time: PT30S
Knead the Dough
Switch to the dough hook and knead on medium speed for 4 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and pulls away from the bowl sides.
Time: PT4M
Incorporate Butter
Add the softened butter in small pieces and knead for an additional 1 minute until fully incorporated and the dough is glossy.
Time: PT1M
First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled container, cover, and let it double in size at 80°C (176°F) for about 1 hour.
Time: PT1H
Temperature: 80°C
Punch Down and Shape Ball
Punch the risen dough to release air, then fold the sides over the center on a floured surface to form a tight ball.
Time: PT5M
Divide and Shape Buns
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces (about 80 g each). Pinch and tuck each piece to form smooth balls, then place them on a parchment‑lined baking sheet and gently flatten each bun to a disc shape.
Time: PT10M
Second Proof
Cover the tray and let the buns proof for another 1 hour at 80°C (176°F) until they look puffy.
Time: PT1H
Temperature: 80°C
Egg Wash and Seed
Brush each bun with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds evenly on top.
Time: PT2M
Bake Buns
Bake in a pre‑heated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12‑15 minutes, until the tops are golden brown.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 375°F
Cool and Slice
Remove the buns, transfer to a wire rack and cool for 15 minutes. Slice each bun horizontally with a bread knife, toast if desired, then assemble with your favorite patties and toppings.
Time: PT15M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 6 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Wheat, Egg, Dairy, Sesame
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Bread Flour: All‑Purpose Flour
- Instead of Active Dry Yeast: Instant Yeast
- Instead of Large Egg: Egg substitute (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
- Instead of Whole Milk: Almond milk, Oat milk
- Instead of Honey: Maple syrup
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine
- Instead of Egg Wash: Milk wash
- Instead of Sesame Seeds: Poppy seeds, Everything bagel seasoning
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Stand Mixer
- Flat Beater Attachment
- Dough Hook Attachment
- Kitchen Scale
- Pastry Brush
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Wire Rack
- Bread Knife
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- First rise until the dough doubles in size
- Incorporate butter fully during kneading
- Second proof until buns are puffy but not over‑proofed
- Brush with egg wash for a glossy crust
- Bake until golden brown, checking at 12 minutes
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature butter for easier incorporation.
- If the dough feels too sticky, dust the work surface lightly with flour rather than adding more to the bowl.
- For extra flavor, replace half the milk with buttermilk.
Troubleshooting
Dough does not rise
Check that the yeast is fresh and that the liquid temperature is between 35‑40°C (95‑105°F). If too cold, the yeast will be inactive.
Buns are dense and heavy
Do not over‑knead after adding butter and ensure the dough doubles during the first rise. Over‑proofing also collapses the structure.
Crust is too hard
Brush with egg wash and bake no longer than 15 minutes; consider lowering oven temperature by 10°F if your oven runs hot.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Best eaten the same day; can sit at room temperature for up to 12 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The dough can be refrigerated after the first rise for up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before shaping.
- Baked buns freeze well; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5‑7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of brioche buns in American barbecue cuisine?
Brioche buns, with their rich buttery crumb, have become a staple in modern American barbecue because they hold up to juicy grilled meats while adding a touch of sweetness. Their French origins were adapted by pitmasters to create a soft yet sturdy vehicle for pulled pork, brisket, and burgers.
What regional variations of brioche buns exist within the United States?
In the South, brioche buns are often brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with poppy seeds. West Coast versions may incorporate whole‑grain flours or add herbs like rosemary. Some Midwest pit shops top the buns with a thin layer of cheddar before baking.
How are brioche buns traditionally served at barbecue festivals in Texas?
At Texas barbecue festivals, brioche buns are typically split, lightly toasted on the grill, and loaded with smoked brisket, pickles, onions, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce, highlighting the contrast between the sweet bun and smoky meat.
What occasions are brioche buns commonly associated with in American cooking?
Brioche buns are popular for weekend barbecues, birthday parties, and casual dinner gatherings where burgers or pulled pork sliders are served. Their elegant appearance also makes them a favorite for holiday brunch spreads.
What authentic ingredients give brioche its signature buttery flavor, and what are acceptable substitutes?
Traditional brioche relies on egg, butter, milk, and a small amount of honey for sweetness. If you need a substitute, you can replace honey with maple syrup, butter with a high‑quality margarine, and milk with buttermilk for extra tang.
What other American barbecue dishes pair well with these brioche buns?
These buns pair beautifully with smoked pulled pork, Texas‑style brisket, grilled chicken sandwiches, and even fried catfish. They also work well with a side of coleslaw or pickled jalapeños for added crunch.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making brioche buns at home?
Common errors include using cold butter (which prevents proper emulsification), under‑proofing the dough so the buns are dense, and over‑baking which dries out the crumb. Follow the proofing times and keep the butter soft for best results.
Why does this recipe add honey instead of sugar, and can I use sugar instead?
Honey adds moisture and a subtle floral sweetness that complements the buttery flavor, while also helping the crust brown. You can substitute an equal amount of granulated sugar, but the buns may be slightly less tender and the crust a bit paler.
Can I make the brioche dough ahead of time and how should I store it before baking?
Yes, after the first rise you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours, covered. Bring it back to room temperature before shaping and the second proof. This can improve flavor development.
What does the YouTube channel Backyahd BBQ specialize in?
The YouTube channel Backyahd BBQ specializes in backyard barbecue techniques, grill tutorials, and easy-to‑follow recipes for meats, sides, and breads that are perfect for outdoor cooking gatherings.
Last updated: September 1, 2026






