Imagine biting into a steamed bun so adorable and delicious that it looks like a miniature work of art! These Apple-Shaped Steamed Buns are not just a recipe; they're a culinary experience that transforms ordinary dough into extraordinary edible sculptures. Perfect for impressing guests, delighting children, or simply treating yourself to a unique Asian-inspired delicacy, these buns combine playful creativity with traditional steaming techniques that will transport your taste buds to a world of whimsy and flavor.
Prep Time: 40 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 10 buns
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring
- Green dough for leaves
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and active dry yeast. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Gradually add milk to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft, smooth dough forms. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and slightly glossy.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes, allowing it to rise and become puffy.
- Divide the dough into 10 equal portions. Take one portion and shape it into a smooth ball, then flatten it into a circular disc.
- Add a small amount of red food coloring to a portion of the dough, kneading until the color is evenly distributed and creates a soft pink-red shade.
- Shape the colored dough into an apple-like form, creating a slightly rounded shape with a slight indentation at the top where the stem will be.
- Use a toothpick or small knife to create gentle vertical lines around the surface to mimic an apple's natural texture.
- Prepare the green dough for leaves by mixing a small portion of the remaining white dough with green food coloring. Shape small leaf details to attach to the top of the apple-shaped bun.
- Place each shaped bun on a small square of parchment paper to prevent sticking during steaming.
- Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a gentle boil. Arrange the buns with space between them to allow for expansion.
- Steam the buns over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes. Ensure the lid is covered to trap steam and cook the buns evenly.
- After steaming, let the buns rest for 2-3 minutes before removing them from the steamer to prevent collapsing.
- Serve warm and enjoy the beautifully shaped apple-themed steamed buns as a delightful Asian-inspired treat.
Tips
- Temperature is key: Ensure your resting area for dough is warm but not hot, around 80-85°F, to help the yeast activate perfectly.
- Food coloring technique: Add food coloring gradually and knead thoroughly to achieve an even, natural-looking apple color without streaks.
- Texture matters: Use a toothpick or fine brush to create gentle, realistic apple-like surface lines for an authentic appearance.
- Steaming success: Don't overcrowd the steamer - leave enough space between buns for expansion and even cooking.
- Moisture control: Keep a damp cloth over the dough during resting to prevent it from drying out and maintain a soft texture.
- Timing is crucial: Steam for exactly 15-20 minutes - under or over-steaming can affect the bun's texture and appearance.
- Cooling technique: Let buns rest for a few minutes after steaming to maintain their shape and prevent deflation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 114kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 1mg
