Turkey 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 pay off in a big way — soft, pillowy, and golden in a way that store-bought versions rarely manage. These are made entirely from pantry staples: flour, milk, egg, butter, and yeast, so there's nothing hidden in the ingredient list to second-guess. The enriched dough gets its tender crumb from softened butter worked in gradually during kneading, and a milk wash before baking gives each bun that beautiful, lightly glossy top. Shaping them into snug logs and letting them proof side by side means they bake up with those signature soft pull-apart sides that make every bite feel like a treat. Whether you're loading them up for a backyard cookout or just want a reliable bun you made yourself, this recipe delivers consistent results with straightforward technique. Let them cool just long enough to pull apart cleanly, then get ready for the best hot dog you've had in a while.

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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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