Best Homemade Hamburger Buns Recipe – Soft, Fluffy & Ready in 40 Minutes!

Nothing beats a juicy burger on a homemade bun. These soft, fluffy hamburger buns are baked to golden perfection and come together in just 40 minutes — ideal for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests. Say goodbye to store-bought buns and elevate every bite with this easy, irresistible recipe.

If you’re a burger lover or home cook looking to ditch the preservatives and level up your cookout game, these buns are exactly what you need. Made with basic pantry staples and ready in under an hour, this recipe is beginner-friendly, reliable, and delicious.

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Hamburger Buns

• Quick rise time – ready in under an hour
• Soft and fluffy texture that holds up to juicy burgers
• Versatile – make hot dog buns or sandwich rolls
• Made with pantry staples and no preservatives
• Freezer-friendly for quick burger nights

From Memorial Day cookouts to weeknight dinners, these buns are always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them warm with pulled pork, veggie burgers, grilled chicken, or even as sandwich rolls for leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup butter
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 (.25 ounce) package instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 egg, for egg wash (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Homemade Hamburger Buns

1. Activate the Yeast

In a saucepan, heat the milk, water, and butter until very warm (about 120°F). Pour the mixture into a bowl and stir in the yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups flour with the sugar and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture and egg. Gradually add the rest of the flour, kneading well after each addition until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You should be able to poke it and have it slowly bounce back.

4. Shape and Let Rise

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions, shape into balls, and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each slightly. Cover with a clean towel and let rise for 30–35 minutes in a warm spot.

5. Egg Wash and Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F. If desired, brush the tops with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake on the center rack for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown.

Can I Use This Dough for Hot Dog Buns?

Yes! Shape each dough piece into a 6×4″ rectangle, roll tightly, and pinch the edges to seal. Let rise for 20–25 minutes and bake as directed. This dough is incredibly versatile.

Reader Favorites and Customizations

• Use everything bagel seasoning or poppy seeds instead of sesame
• Make mini slider buns for party appetizers
• Freeze extras in airtight bags for easy burger nights

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Easy Meatloaf You’ll Make Over and OverBest Meatloaf Recipe for Sandwiches
• Slower Cooker Honey BBQ Chicken (Perfect for These Buns!)
• Baked Coney Island Chili Cheese Dogs Recipe

FAQs About Homemade Hamburger Buns

How long do homemade hamburger buns last?

They’ll stay fresh for 3–4 days in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat briefly in the oven.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Use plant-based milk and butter. Omit the egg or use a vegan wash like soy milk with maple syrup.

Can I make these with whole wheat flour?

You can substitute up to 50% of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.