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Fluffy Garlic Butter Milk Buns – Buttery, Soft Japanese-Inspired Dinner Rolls

Fluffy Garlic Butter Milk Buns – Buttery, Soft Japanese-Inspired Dinner Rolls

These fluffy garlic butter milk buns are the ultimate twist on classic dinner rolls — soft, pillowy, and brushed with garlicky butter and flaky salt. A Japanese-inspired recipe that’s perfect for any holiday table or cozy weeknight meal.
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Recipe Type: Appetizer, Bread
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 15 servings

Video

Ingredients

Tangzhong (Milk Roux)

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour 4 tbsp
  • ¼ cup water 4 tbsp
  • ½ cup milk

Dough

  • 2 tbsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk 100–110°F
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups bread flour
  • 1 tsp powdered milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature

Egg Wash

  • 1 large egg, whisked

Garlic Butter Topping

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Flaky salt for finishing

Instructions

Instructions

  • Make the Tangzhong:In a small saucepan, whisk together ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup water, and ½ cup milk. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a smooth paste (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat immediately and let cool slightly.
  • Activate the Yeast:In a separate bowl or mixer bowl, warm 1 cup of milk to 100–110°F. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
  • Mix the Dough:Add the tangzhong to the stand mixer bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix in sugar, eggs, and powdered milk until combined.
  • Add Dry Ingredients:Add salt, all-purpose flour, and bread flour. Using the dough hook attachment, knead on medium-low speed for about 5 minutes.
  • Incorporate Butter:Gradually add in the room temperature butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully absorbed. Continue kneading for an additional 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
  • First Rise:Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  • Shape the Buns:Punch down the dough to release air. Divide into 15 equal pieces (about 70–75 g each). Roll each piece into a smooth ball and arrange them evenly in a greased 9×13 baking pan.
  • Second Rise:Cover and let rise for 30 minutes, or until puffy.
  • Egg Wash & Bake:Brush the tops with a whisked egg. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.
  • Garlic Butter Finish:While still warm, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush generously over the buns and finish with flaky salt.