When the craving for something warm, cheesy, and utterly delightful strikes, I know just the remedy: Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns! Imagine the golden crust giving way to a soft, pillowy interior, filled with savory ham, luscious melted mozzarella, and a hint of sweetness from corn. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug straight from the oven.
I first discovered this recipe during a cozy weekend gathering, captivating my friends with the tantalizing aroma wafting through the kitchen. We couldn’t resist diving in as soon as they emerged from the oven, golden-brown and inviting. Now, I want to share this joy with you!
These buns are not just simple to make—they’re incredibly versatile too! Whether you whip them up for a weekend brunch or as a standout snack for a game night, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Let’s get started on creating these delightful treats that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns a Must-Try?
Deliciously Versatile: These buns are great for any meal! Unique Filling: Combining ham, corn, and mozzarella brings sweet and savory together. Perfectly Pillowy: The tangzhong method results in unbelievably soft and airy bread. Quick to Impress: Bake these buns and watch your guests swoon over your baking skills. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Everyone loves the cheesy goodness in every bite; they’re perfect for gatherings! You’ll find this recipe not only satisfies cravings but also makes a fantastic centerpiece for your next family meal or celebration. Let’s dive in and bake these mouthwatering buns together!
Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns Ingredients
For the Tangzhong
- Water – 125 ml, essential for creating that perfect bread texture.
- Bread flour – 25 grams, helps achieve that silky-smooth tangzhong base.
For the Dough
- Bread flour – 300 grams, forms the structure of your fluffy buns.
- Lukewarm milk – 80 ml, provides moisture and helps activate the yeast.
- Instant yeast – 5 grams, ensures your buns rise beautifully.
- Milk powder – 6 grams, adds richness and flavor to the dough.
- Unsalted butter – 20 grams, gives the bread a lovely, tender crumb.
- White granulated sugar – 40 grams, balances the flavors and enhances browning.
- Table salt – 2 grams, amplifies the overall taste.
- Egg – 1, ensures a rich texture and color for your buns.
For the Filling
- Ham – 10 slices, the star of this savory show brings delightful protein.
- Corn – 100 grams, sweet bursts of flavor that complement the ham.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 100 grams, melts beautifully for gooey goodness.
- Japanese mayonnaise (kewpie mayo) – 4 tablespoons, adds an irresistible creaminess.
- Dried parsley flakes – 1 teaspoon, for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
For the Egg Wash
- Egg – 1, gives the tops a gorgeous golden-brown finish.
- Milk – 1 splash, helps to achieve that rich, glossy glaze.
These Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns are not only fun to make but promise to be a favorite for your meal gatherings. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
How to Make Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns
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Prepare the Tangzhong: Combine 125 ml water with 25 grams bread flour in a saucepan. Heat it over medium until it thickens, then set aside to cool. This step is crucial for that soft texture.
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Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, add 300 grams bread flour, 80 ml lukewarm milk, 5 grams instant yeast, 6 grams milk powder, 20 grams unsalted butter, 40 grams white sugar, 2 grams salt, and 1 egg. Stir until just combined.
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Incorporate the Tangzhong: Pour the cooled tangzhong into the mixing bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms, ensuring everything is well-integrated for even baking.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 7-10 minutes. Then let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, around 1 hour.
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Roll Out the Dough: After rising, roll out the dough on a floured surface. Lay 10 slices of ham and 100 grams of corn evenly over it, creating a delightful filling.
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Add Cheese and Sauce: Sprinkle 100 grams of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ham and corn. Drizzle 4 tablespoons of Japanese mayonnaise and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried parsley on top for extra flavor.
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Shape the Buns: Roll the dough tightly around the filling, shaping it as desired. Ensure the filling is well-enclosed to keep it all deliciously tucked inside.
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Second Rise: Place the rolled dough in a greased baking dish. Let it rise again until puffy, about 30-45 minutes, giving it that airy texture.
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Prepare the Egg Wash: Beat 1 egg with a splash of milk, and brush it over the surface of the bread to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
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Bake the Buns: Preheat your oven and bake the buns until they are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re fragrant and beautifully browned!
Optional: Sprinkle a little more dried parsley on top before serving for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the tangzhong and dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix and knead the dough, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature, shape the buns, and fill them with ham, corn, and cheese just before the second rise. If you’d like to prep the filling, you can assemble the buns completely and refrigerate them for up to 3 days—just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When it’s time to enjoy, let them rise until puffy and then bake them straight from the fridge for that warm, comforting goodness with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns
Room Temperature: Store cooked buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the buns in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to retain their fluffy quality.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen buns, thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm through and restore their fresh-baked texture.
Tips for the Best Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns
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Perfect Tangzhong: Ensure you cook the tangzhong until it’s thick but not lumpy. This creates the light, fluffy texture that elevates your buns.
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Knead Well: Don’t skimp on kneading! A smooth, elastic dough is key to achieving those perfectly pillowy Chinese ham and cheese buns. Aim for about 7-10 minutes of kneading.
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Rising Time: Be patient during the rising stages. The dough should double in size, ensuring your buns are airy and tender. Warm environments yield the best results.
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Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in the ham, corn, and cheese, keep the filling moderate. Overfilling can cause the buns to burst or become soggy.
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Egg Wash is Key: Brushing the buns with the egg wash not only enhances browning but also gives a lovely sheen, making them picture-perfect for any occasion.
Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful buns to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free bread flour blend for a delicious alternative that still delivers on texture.
- Vegetarian: Swap ham for sautéed mushrooms or spinach to create a savory flavor profile that will satisfy even the most devoted meat lovers.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra layer of heat, making every bite an adventure.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or chives into the filling for a vibrant twist. They’ll not only beautify but elevate the flavor!
- Cheese Blend: Instead of mozzarella, try a mixture of cheddar and provolone for a unique cheesy experience, making your buns even more indulgent.
- Sweet Variation: Include thin slices of apple or pear along with the ham for a delightful sweet-savory contrast, adding a refreshing twist!
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the filling for a satisfying texture and added richness.
- Eggy Goodness: Mix in a beaten egg into the filling before rolling it in; this adds an extra richness and creates a custardy core that is simply divine.
Embrace the possibilities with these variations, and make this recipe your own!
What to Serve with Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns?
Savoring these delightful buns is only the beginning of a delicious culinary experience!
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad brings a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy buns, balancing flavors beautifully. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for an added kick!
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Creamy Tomato Soup: The comforting warmth of tomato soup perfectly complements the cheesy goodness of the buns, creating a nostalgic meal that’s hard to resist. Dip and savor!
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Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: A side of buttery corn on the cob enhances the sweetness from the filling. The buttery flavors meld beautifully with the savory ham and cheese.
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Pickled Vegetables: A small bowl of tangy pickles adds a delightful crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the buns, making each bite more vibrant and exciting.
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Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale dressed in olive oil and garlic gives your meal a wholesome touch, full of nutrients and flavor. It’s a nourishing contrast that complements the softness of the buns wonderfully.
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Chilled Green Tea: Pair these buns with a refreshing glass of chilled green tea. The herbal notes will cleanse your palate, making each bite a flavorful experience.
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Fruit Salad: A bowl of fresh, seasonal fruit introduces a sweet and juicy counterpoint, cleansing the palate and rounding out your meal with color and vibrancy.
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Dessert Bars: Conclude your meal with a small slice of lemon or chocolate dessert bars. Their sweetness and richness will satisfy any lingering cravings after enjoying the buns.
Bring these pairings to the table, and watch your family and friends revel in the flavors of your thoughtfully curated meal!
Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns Recipe FAQs
How should I select ingredients for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh ingredients. Look for ham with a nice balance of meat and fat for flavor. When selecting corn, opt for sweet, tender kernels—frozen or fresh both work wonderfully. Your mozzarella cheese should be fresh and finely shredded to melt seamlessly into that gooey filling.
How should I store Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns?
The storage of these delightful buns is quite simple! After baking, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, transfer them to the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just be sure to reheat them in the oven for that soft, warm texture!
Can I freeze Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns?
Very! To freeze, wrap each fully cooled bun tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they will maintain their taste and texture for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it’s generally due to inactive yeast. Ensure you use fresh instant yeast and check the temperature of your liquids—lukewarm is key! If it’s too hot or too cold, it affects yeast activation. Also, be sure to knead well for the right gluten development, then place it in a warm, draft-free spot to rise.
Are these buns safe for people with dietary restrictions?
When it comes to allergies, pay attention to the ingredients. The ham is a key component, so substitute it with turkey or a favorite plant-based option for a lighter alternative. Additionally, those with dairy intolerance can use lactose-free butter and cheese. Always check individual product labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
What can I do if the buns are too doughy?
If your buns turn out too doughy, it’s often a kneading issue or an inaccurate measurement of flour. Make sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, typically taking about 7-10 minutes. If you suspect over-hydration, gently incorporate a bit more flour, but be cautious—too much can make them dense!
Chinese Ham and Cheese Buns That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Tangzhong: Combine 125 ml water with 25 grams bread flour in a saucepan. Heat it over medium until it thickens, then set aside to cool.
- Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, add 300 grams bread flour, 80 ml lukewarm milk, 5 grams instant yeast, 6 grams milk powder, 20 grams unsalted butter, 40 grams white sugar, 2 grams salt, and 1 egg. Stir until just combined.
- Incorporate the Tangzhong: Pour the cooled tangzhong into the mixing bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 7-10 minutes. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, around 1 hour.
- Roll Out the Dough: After rising, roll out the dough on a floured surface, lay 10 slices of ham and 100 grams of corn evenly over it.
- Add Cheese and Sauce: Sprinkle 100 grams of shredded mozzarella cheese, drizzle 4 tablespoons of Japanese mayonnaise and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried parsley on top.
- Shape the Buns: Roll the dough tightly around the filling, ensuring the filling is well-enclosed.
- Second Rise: Place the rolled dough in a greased baking dish. Let it rise again until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: Beat 1 egg with a splash of milk, and brush it over the surface.
- Bake the Buns: Preheat your oven and bake the buns until they are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.