If I had to chose a single favorite burger (slider) bun recipe, it would have to this one. They are slightly, just slightly sweet, rich, buttery and delicious. These buns are fantastic all on their own, but also great with a miniature hamburger or a meatball in BBQ sauce, which is how I like to serve them. The sesame on the top is optional, but if you like a little bit of a crunch with your sliders, sprinkle it generously.
Ingredients
450 grams plain flour
2 teaspoons dried yeast
1 ½ teaspoon salt
100 grams butter
2 tablespoons honey
120 ml whole milk
120 ml hot water
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
sesame seed (optional)
Preparation
Sift the flour twice, then reserve about 50 grams and set it aside. Put the rest of the flour in a large bowl, add the yeast and salt and whisk well. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk with the hot water. Melt together the honey and the butter over low heat (or in the microwave), pour it into the milk mixture and set it aside for a few moments, to cool it slightly. Make a well in the middle of the flour and pour in the wet ingredients. Start mixing with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together, then transfer it to a floured surface and continue to knead with your hands for about 5 minutes, adding the reserved flour as you knead.
Depending on the flour, you may need to add a bit more flour as you knead. Oil a large bowl, put the dough in, cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise until doubled in size, about an hour and a half. Flour your counter, turn out the risen dough and knead it for a few minutes, then divide it into 20 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Just before baking, brush them with the olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using). Bake in a preheated oven, at 190˚C (375˚F) for 15-18 minutes and serve warm.
