Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns

There’s something utterly delightful about biting into a homemade hamburger bun, especially when it’s made with whole wheat flour. Not only does it bring a nutty flavor to your burgers, but it also adds a nutritious twist that elevates your meal. Whether you’re grilling up a classic cheeseburger or trying out a delicious Pulled Chicken Sandwich, these Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns will impress your family and friends.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Homemade Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns are lauded for their soft, fluffy texture and wholesome taste. Not only do they offer a heartier alternative to store-bought options, but they also allow you to control the ingredients, making them fresher and healthier. Plus, the satisfaction of creating your own buns from scratch is unmatched. These buns are perfect for summer barbecues, backyard parties, or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make these delightful Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns, you’ll need the following:

• 200 grams Whole Wheat Flour (approximately 1.5 cups plus 1 tablespoon) – This provides the nutritious base for your buns.
• 200 grams All-Purpose Flour (approximately 1 and 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon) – Aids in achieving the perfect fluffy texture.
• 300 grams Lukewarm Milk (about 1 and 1/4 cup, at 100 degrees) – Activates the yeast and adds moisture.
• 14 grams Canola Oil (1 tablespoon) – Keeps the buns tender and moist.
• 1 Large Egg – Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
• 21 grams Honey (1 tablespoon) – A natural sweetener that enhances flavor.
• 9 grams Kosher Salt (1 and a half teaspoons) – Balances the flavors.
• 7 grams Yeast (1 packet or 2 and 1/4 teaspoons) – The leavening agent for a fluffy rise.
• 1 Large Egg (beaten) – For egg wash, giving the buns a beautiful finish.
• 1 tablespoon Water – To mix with the egg for the wash.
• Sesame Seeds – Optional, for topping the buns.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools:

• Mixing Bowl – For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements ensure success.
• Whisk – For mixing the wet ingredients and beating the egg.
• Kitchen Scale – For precise measurements of flour and yeast.
• Baking Sheet – To bake the buns on.
• Parchment Paper – To line the baking sheet for easy removal.
• Kitchen Towel – For covering the dough while it rises.

Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns — Do This Next

Making Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until frothy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and kosher salt. This will ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the large egg and add the canola oil. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, combine it with the egg and oil, stirring until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. You can use your hands to bring it together into a ball.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 6: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 7: Shape the Buns

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round bun and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the shaped buns with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 9: Preheat and Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of the second rise. Beat the additional egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush the tops of the buns. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Step 10: Bake

Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

Using seasonal ingredients can elevate your Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns. Consider these variations:

• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a flavor boost.
• Spices: Incorporate spices such as garlic powder or onion powder for an added depth of flavor.
• Seeds: Experiment with different seeds like poppy or flax seeds on top for a unique twist.
• Cheese: Mix in shredded cheese for a cheesy bun that pairs wonderfully with burgers.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

Making Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns might seem daunting, but avoiding common pitfalls can ensure success:

• Dry Dough: If your dough feels dry, add a splash more milk or water to achieve the right consistency.
• Dense Buns: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active; if it doesn’t froth, it’s best to start over with new yeast.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the buns while they bake; they can go from golden to burnt quickly.
• Uneven Shapes: When shaping the buns, try to make them as uniform as possible for even baking.

Prep Ahead & Store

These Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for meal prep:

• Freezing Buns: After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw the buns at room temperature and warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
• Making Dough Ahead: You can also prepare the dough up to the second rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Questions People Ask

Can I use only whole wheat flour for this recipe?

While you can use only whole wheat flour, it may result in denser buns. Combining it with all-purpose flour helps achieve a lighter texture.

How do I know when my buns are done baking?

The buns should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) is also a good indicator.

Can I make these buns gluten-free?

To make gluten-free buns, you would need to use a gluten-free flour blend and possibly add xanthan gum to mimic the elasticity found in wheat flour.

What can I serve with these buns?

These Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns are perfect for any burger, but they also pair well with Steak And Shake Burger Recipe or a hearty Ground Beef Grilled Cheese.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve mastered these Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns, try your hand at these delicious recipes:

• Pulled Chicken Sandwiches – A perfect filling for your fresh buns.
• Steak And Shake Burger Recipe – The ultimate burger to accompany your homemade buns.
• Ground Beef Grilled Cheese – A comforting dish to enjoy with your buns.

Ready, Set, Cook

Creating your own Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns is not only rewarding but also a fun way to elevate your meals. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can produce buns that are far superior to anything from the store. Your burgers will taste better, and you’ll feel good knowing you made them from scratch. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns!