Homemade Bao Buns

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Add the warm water, warm milk (heated for about 30 seconds in the microwave), yeast, and oil to the bowl of a stand mixer. Stir to combine.
2. Add the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix on low to slowly incorporate the ingredients. Once a ball of dough starts to form, increase the speed to medium and knead for 4 minutes. The dough should be soft and stretchy but not stick to your fingers.
3. Remove the dough and place in a mixing bowl that is lightly oiled. Cover and place in a warm spot rise. The dough should triple in size, about 2-2 ½ hours.
4. Place the dough on the counter and roll out into a large circle that is about ¼-inch thick. Use flour if needed but try to limit the amount of flour you use. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles that are about 3 ½-inch in diameter. You should have about 14-16 rounds of dough.
5. Lightly spritz each piece of dough with cooking spray. Fold in half and use your palm to lightly press down to hold together. Repeat until all dough has been folded.
6. Line the steamer baskets with parchment paper and place the buns inside, evenly spaced. Cover and let sit for 30 minutes.
7. Bring water to a boil in a wok. Leave about ½-inch between the water and bottom of the steamer basket. You don’t want the water to touch the basket. Once boiling, place the steamer basked in the wok. Keep the cover on and steam for 10-12 minutes. Slightly open the lid but do not take off and let the steam escape and air circulate for about 2 minutes. Remove the lid completely.
8. Serve the buns warm as is or add your favorite filling. Enjoy!
9. Any leftovers should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.