Nothing beats the comfort of fresh, homemade bread, especially when it’s soft, fluffy, and slightly tangy from yogurt. Small Buns with Yogurt are a versatile, delicious option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. These buns are perfect on their own, filled with sweet or savory ingredients, or served alongside soups and stews.
With a tender crumb and lightly golden crust, these buns are easy to make and perfect for family meals, gatherings, or even as a portable snack. In this article, we’ll explore the charm of yogurt buns, provide a step-by-step recipe, and share tips for serving, presentation, and variations.
Why You’ll Love Small Yogurt Buns
These buns have several qualities that make them irresistible:
- Soft and Fluffy: Yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang, resulting in a tender, airy texture.
- Versatile: Serve plain, with butter and jam, stuffed with meats or cheese, or alongside a warm bowl of soup.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these buns are approachable for beginner bakers.
- Longer Freshness: The yogurt keeps them moist, helping them stay soft for longer than regular bread rolls.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- ¼ cup milk (warm, about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Rising Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Baking Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes–2 hours
- Yield: About 12 small buns
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt and vegetable oil together. Add the yeast mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Second Rise
Cover the buns and let them rise for another 20–30 minutes, until slightly puffed.
7. Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Optional: brush the buns with a beaten egg for a golden, shiny crust. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the buns to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
These buns provide a balanced source of energy, protein, and carbohydrates, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or meal accompaniments.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Breakfast Treat: Split and toast the buns, then top with butter, jam, or honey.
- Savory Sandwiches: Fill with deli meats, cheese, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying lunch.
- Side for Soup or Stew: Serve warm alongside creamy soups, chili, or stews.
- Party Bites: Use smaller portions as sliders with pulled chicken, beef, or falafel.
For a charming presentation, place the buns in a basket lined with a linen cloth or stack them neatly on a platter.
Variations and Customizations
- Herb-Infused: Add 1–2 teaspoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough.
- Cheese-Stuffed: Insert small cubes of cheese into each bun before baking.
- Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half or all of the flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.
- Sweet Version: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the dough and sprinkle the tops with cinnamon sugar before baking.
Tips for Success
- Warm Environment: Yeast dough rises best in a warm, draft-free place.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Knead until smooth and elastic; over-kneading can make buns tough.
- Check Oven Temperature: A slightly too-hot oven can brown the buns too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked.
Small Buns with Yogurt are a delightful way to enjoy homemade bread that’s soft, fluffy, and slightly tangy. Their versatility allows them to shine in both sweet and savory applications, making them a staple for any kitchen.
Whether you’re baking for a weekday breakfast, packing school lunches, or serving alongside a cozy family dinner, these buns are a comforting, satisfying choice. Their light texture, easy preparation, and adaptable flavor profile make them a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.
So preheat your oven, mix up a batch, and enjoy the simple joy of warm, homemade buns straight from your kitchen.