Caffeine Free Soft Hot Dog Buns

Total time2 hr 15 min

Prep time25 min

Cook time20 min

4.6

(22)

Homemade hot dog buns are one of those small kitchen projects that pays off in a big way — soft, pillowy, and golden, they make every cookout or weeknight dinner feel a little more special. These are completely free of coffee, tea, or any other stimulants, which means they're a safe and satisfying choice whether you're avoiding caffeine for health reasons, pregnancy, or personal preference. The dough comes together with pantry staples — flour, milk, egg, butter, yeast, and a pinch of salt — so there's nothing hidden or surprising in the ingredient list. The real magic happens when you knead in the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, building a tender, slightly enriched crumb that store-bought buns rarely match. A final brush of milk before baking gives them that gorgeous, lightly glossy top with a soft crust that holds up to toppings without getting soggy. Pull them apart fresh from the rack and you'll wonder why you ever reached for the plastic bag at the grocery store.

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Ingredients

8 servings

For the dough

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

2 tbsp whole milk, for brushing

Instructions

1
Combine the warmed 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 — this confirms the yeast is active.
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.

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