Caffeine Free Classic Hot Dog Buns
Soft, pillowy, and golden on top, these homemade hot dog buns are the kind of thing that makes a backyard cookout feel genuinely special. The enriched dough — built with whole milk, egg, and butter worked in gradually — gives each bun a tender, slightly rich crumb that holds up to toppings without turning soggy. Every single ingredient here is naturally free of caffeine, so there's no need to scrutinize labels or worry about hidden stimulants sneaking into your meal. The process is straightforward: bloom the yeast, knead until smooth, let the dough rise, and shape into neat little logs that bake up touching each other for those signature soft sides. A double brush of melted butter — once before the oven and once right after — adds a glossy finish and just enough richness to make these buns taste like something from a proper bakery. They're genuinely worth the effort, and once you've had a hot dog nestled in one of these, the store-bought version is going to feel like a real step down.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- ¾ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°f (43°c)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tsp fine salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
For brushing
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- 1
Combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl). Stir briefly and let stand for 5–8 minutes, until the surface is foamy and the mixture smells yeasty.
- 2
Add the flour, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed with the dough hook (or stir with a wooden spoon) until a shaggy dough forms, about 2 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!