1. Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water and warm milk. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the liquid, add the sugar, and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can knead by hand for 8-10 minutes on a lightly floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Buns:
- Divide the Dough:
- After the first rise, punch the dough down to release air. Turn it onto a floured surface and divide it into 8 equal portions.
- Shape the Buns:
- Roll each portion into a smooth ball. Flatten slightly with your palm to form a bun shape.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped buns on a piece of parchment paper, cover them lightly with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the buns achieve a perfect golden crust.
4. Air Fry the Buns:
- Prepare for Cooking:
- Mix the egg yolk with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the buns lightly with the egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.
- Air Fry Time:
- Carefully place the parchment paper with the risen buns into the air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and cooked through.
- Check for Doneness:
- If the buns need more time, continue air frying in 1-2 minute increments. The buns should be golden and sound hollow when tapped.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Cool the Buns:
- Transfer the cooked buns to a wire rack to cool slightly. This helps them retain their softness while ensuring the insides are fully set.
- Serve:
- Slice the buns in half once they’re cool enough to handle. Use them to build your favorite hamburgers with your preferred toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Sweet Buns:
- For sweeter buns, increase the sugar to 3-4 tablespoons and add a touch of honey to the dough.
- Flavor Variations:
- Infuse the dough with garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs for a flavored bun that complements specific burger recipes.
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can be reheated in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for a few minutes.
- Freezing Dough:
- Freeze the shaped dough before the second rise for later use. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, let rise, and then air fry as directed.
- Burger Ideas:
- Try using these buns for sliders, grilled chicken sandwiches, or even breakfast sandwiches.
Conclusion
Air frying hamburger buns might sound unconventional, but it’s a simple and effective method to achieve bakery-quality results right in your kitchen. These homemade buns are soft, fluffy, and have just the right amount of chew, making them the perfect complement to any burger. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the buns truly your own. So next time you’re planning a burger night, try making your own buns in the air fryer and elevate your meal to a whole new level!