Fluffy Chinese Coconut Cocktail Buns

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Fluffy Chinese Coconut Cocktail Buns.

1. Step 1

   Start by combining 1/3 cup of sugar and 1 cup of milk in a small saucepan. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Add 1/4 cup of softened butter to the mixture and warm it gently until the butter melts. Make sure the mixture is warm, but not hot—ideally around 100°F (40°C).

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, blend together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast. Pour the warm milk mixture into the flour-yeast blend. If you're using it, stir in 1 beaten egg. Mix everything until you form a sticky, wet dough that’s just begging to be kneaded.

3. Step 3

   Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes, gradually incorporating up to 1 cup of additional flour as needed, until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough. Shape the dough into a round ball, place it in an oiled bowl, and turn it around a few times to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take about an hour.

4. Step 4

   While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, cream together 1/4 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in 1/2 cup of nonfat dry milk powder, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of finely grated fresh coconut until everything is smooth and well combined. Set this delicious filling aside for later.

5. Step 5

   Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into two equal pieces. Cut each piece into 8 smaller pieces, giving you a total of 16 pieces. Roll each piece into an oblong shape and flatten it slightly with a floured rolling pin. Take about 1 tablespoon of the coconut filling and place it in the center of each bun. Carefully pull and pinch the edges of the dough together to seal in the filling, creating a little pouch. Repeat this process until all the dough pieces are filled and shaped.

6. Step 6

   Place the filled buns seam-side down on prepared baking sheets. Cover them with a cloth and let them rise again in a warm place for about an hour. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

7. Step 7

   For a beautiful glossy finish, beat 1 egg in a bowl and brush a little over each bun. If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

8. Step 8

   Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delightful coconut buns warm or at room temperature!