Burger Buns

§ PROCEDURE

1. In the stand mixer bowl, combine 460 g bread flour, 14 g instant yeast, 30 g sugar, 30 g powdered milk, and 9 g salt. Mix with the paddle attachment on low speed until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add 40 g melted and cooled butter, 220 ml lukewarm water, and 1 egg. Continue mixing on low until the dough comes together and no dry flour remains.
3. Switch to the dough hook. Mix on medium-high speed for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl.
4. Turn the dough out and shape it into a ball. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, brush or rub a little oil over the surface of the dough to prevent sticking, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let it ferment at room temperature for 1–2 hours, until roughly doubled in size.
5. Turn the dough onto an unfloured surface. Divide into 6 equal portions for larger buns or 8 for standard size. Shape each portion into a smooth, tight ball by pulling the edges underneath and rolling gently on the surface. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each. Gently press each ball down to flatten it slightly into a disc — this helps them bake into bun shapes rather than round balls.
6. Brush a little oil over the top of each bun and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Let them rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
7. Preheat the oven to 420°F (215°C). Beat the remaining egg and brush it over each bun. Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the tops.
8. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the buns are deep golden brown. Transfer immediately to a cooling rack and let them cool completely before slicing.

§ OBSERVED RESULT

The buns emerge with a deep amber glaze from the egg wash and a consistent sesame seed distribution across the crown. The interior crumb is soft and slightly pillowy, with a tender structure from the powdered milk and butter. When split and pressed, they hold their shape without compressing into a flat disc. Earth specimens appear satisfied. I have confirmed the sesame seeds are not optional.