Stovetop Custard Cream Buns Recipe
Imagine pillowy, golden buns bursting with silky smooth pastry cream, all made entirely on your stovetop—no oven required! These Stovetop Custard Cream Buns are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves soft, homemade bread paired with the enchanting flavor of creamy custard. Each bite is pure comfort and nostalgia, making this recipe a longtime favorite for both weekday indulgences and special weekends. Whether you’re craving something sweet for breakfast, tea time, or dessert, these buns promise to deliver warmth and joy every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Stovetop Custard Cream Buns is that they rely on just a handful of pantry staples, each one playing a vital role in creating their irresistible flavor and texture. When combined, these ingredients result in tender buns with a cloud-like crumb and a dreamy, custard-filled center.
- All purpose / cake flour: This forms the base of the dough and ensures a soft, fluffy texture. Use cake flour for an even more delicate bun if you have it!
- Instant dry yeast: Makes the dough beautifully light and airy—no need for proofing, just add it right in.
- White granulated or castor sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps the yeast work its magic for a tender crumb.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings out the natural flavors of the buns and the custard.
- Warm water: Activates the yeast and holds the dough together—aim for pleasantly warm, not hot, to keep the yeast happy.
- Milk: Lends a subtle richness and golden color to the buns. Any variety works, from whole to low-fat or even plant-based.
- Oil (canola or sunflower): Keeps everything soft and helps the buns stay moist while cooking on the stovetop.
How to Make Stovetop Custard Cream Buns
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl and combine the instant dry yeast, sugar, salt, and flour. It’s as simple as tossing in your dry ingredients—no need to activate the yeast separately! Give everything a quick stir to evenly disperse the yeast and sugar for the fluffiest results.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a small saucepan or a measuring jug, whisk together the warm water, milk, and oil until smooth. This trio not only moistens the dough but also adds gentle richness and softness. Pour this mixture over the flour mixture and get ready for dough magic!
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Now, roll up your sleeves and knead the mixture for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a dough that’s smooth and supple—don’t be afraid to get your hands in there! If it feels sticky, you can add a dusting of flour until it becomes manageable. This quick knead gives your Stovetop Custard Cream Buns that signature plushness.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Once kneaded, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Set the bowl in the warmest, draft-free corner of your kitchen and let the dough rise undisturbed for about an hour. During this time, your dough will nearly double in size, developing all that airy texture you crave.
Step 5: Punch Down and Knead Again
After your dough has had its cozy nap, give it a gentle punch down to release any bubbles, then knead it again for about 3 minutes. This second knead keeps the buns extra tender and easy to work with as you move on to shaping.
Step 6: Shape and Fill the Buns
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces—use a scale for precision or just eyeball it for rustic charm. Roll each piece into a circle. Place a teaspoon of cooled custard (prepared in advance, your favorite recipe or store-bought) on one side of each circle. Fold over into a half-moon, seal the edges tightly, and place them seam-side down. Let the filled buns rest for 15 minutes before cooking.
Step 7: Cook on the Stovetop
Heat a non-stick pan over low heat. If your pan isn’t non-stick, simply line it with a round of parchment paper and brush with a touch of oil. Place the buns in the pan, leaving a bit of space between each one. Cook gently for 10 minutes on one side, then flip them and cook for another 5 minutes. The low heat ensures your Stovetop Custard Cream Buns turn out golden and cooked through without burning.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Once golden and set, remove the buns from the pan and let them cool for a few minutes. For an extra-special touch, dust lightly with powdered sugar or icing sugar. Now, get ready to dig in while they’re still warm and the custard is irresistibly creamy!
How to Serve Stovetop Custard Cream Buns
Garnishes
A light snowfall of powdered sugar makes these buns look absolutely magical, while a drizzle of melted chocolate or a scatter of toasted nuts adds a lovely crunch. For a fresh twist, try a few berries or citrus zest—each option brings out the custard’s delicate flavor and makes your Stovetop Custard Cream Buns shine on the plate.
Side Dishes
Pair your Stovetop Custard Cream Buns with a cup of robust coffee, fragrant black tea, or an iced matcha latte for a perfectly balanced treat. For brunch spreads, serve them alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or simple scrambled eggs—the buns add a sweet, comforting note to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange the buns in a circle on a pretty platter, lined with parchment paper for a casual bakery vibe. You could also pack them in a basket for a chic picnic, stack on a cake stand for a high tea, or slip one into a lunchbox for a homemade surprise. However you present them, Stovetop Custard Cream Buns are always met with smiles!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Stovetop Custard Cream Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day, or pop them in the fridge for up to three days. The buns will stay soft and delicious, though the custard may absorb slightly into the bread (which honestly makes every bite even creamier!).
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled buns individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a few hours—just be sure to reheat gently for the freshest taste!
Reheating
Bring your Stovetop Custard Cream Buns back to their soft, pillowy selves by warming them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or gently in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will restore their irresistible texture and make that custard center just the right amount of oozy and warm.
FAQs
Can I use another type of flour?
Absolutely! While all-purpose or cake flour brings the softest texture, bread flour can be used for a slightly chewier result. Whole wheat flour works too, though the flavor will be heartier and the buns a bit denser.
Do I have to make my own custard for the filling?
Not at all! While homemade custard gives the richest flavor, you can use store-bought pastry cream or even vanilla pudding in a pinch. Just make sure it’s fully cooled and thick enough to stay put when filling the buns.
What if I don’t have a non-stick pan?
No worries! Simply cut a round of parchment paper to fit your pan and brush it lightly with oil. This keeps the Stovetop Custard Cream Buns from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Can I fill the buns with something other than custard?
Definitely! These buns are wonderfully adaptable—try chocolate spread, sweetened cream cheese, fruit preserves, or even a dollop of Nutella. The base dough is your canvas for endless flavor ideas.
How can I tell when the buns are cooked through?
Look for a beautiful light golden color and a gentle spring-back when you touch the top. If you’re unsure, let them cook an extra minute or two on low heat—better safe than doughy!
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t yet tried Stovetop Custard Cream Buns, you’re in for a melt-in-your-mouth adventure filled with sweet, creamy surprises. Gather your ingredients, warm up your stovetop, and treat yourself to one of the softest, most satisfying bakes you’ll ever pull off without an oven—your friends and family will thank you for it!
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Stovetop Custard Cream Buns Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 buns 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these delicious Stovetop Custard Cream Buns that are soft and filled with a creamy custard center. They are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose/cake flour
- 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
- 1 Tablespoon white granulated or castor sugar
- ⅓ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup warm water
- 1 Tablespoon milk
- 1 Tablespoon oil (canola or sunflower oil)
Filling:
- Cooled custard
Instructions
- Making the dough: Using a large bowl, combine the instant dry yeast, sugar, salt, and flour. Mix together the warm water, milk, and oil in a saucepan or measuring jug and add it to the flour mixture. Knead for 5 minutes, until it forms a smooth, soft dough. Cover and leave to rise for an hour in a warm, draft-free area of your kitchen.
- Filling and cooking the custard buns: After the dough has risen, punch it down and knead for 3 minutes. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a circle. Place a teaspoon of the cooled custard on half of the circle and fold the other half over to cover. Press and seal the edges well and leave to rest for 15 minutes. Heat a non-stick pan on low heat. If you do not have a non-stick pan, then just cut baking paper/parchment paper to fit the shape of your pan. Brush with a little oil and gently place the custard cream buns into the pan. Cook on low heat for 10 minutes then flip it over and cook the other side for 5 minutes. When cooked, remove from the pan and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar/icing sugar if preferred.
Notes
- You can customize the filling by using different flavored custards or adding fruits.
- Ensure the custard is cooled before filling the buns to prevent it from leaking during cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Stovetop Custard Cream Buns, Custard Buns Recipe, Homemade Buns, Dessert Recipe
