Homemade Hamburger Buns

Sure, you could buy hamburger buns at the grocery store — but where's the fun in that? It's easier than you think to make homemade hamburger buns, and they're way more delicious than the store-bought alternative.

How to Make Hamburger Buns

It couldn't be easier to make these homemade hamburger buns. You'll find the step-by-step recipe below — but here's a brief overview of what you can expect:

Make the Dough

Begin by proofing the yeast with some of the flour. Once the yeast is foamy, add the remaining flour, an egg, butter, sugar, and salt. Fit a stand mixer with a dough hook and knead the dough, scraping the sides often, until it's soft and sticky.

Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and form into a smooth, round ball. Tuck the ends underneath and return the dough to an oil-drizzled stand mixer bowl. Ensure the dough is coated with oil, then cover and allow to rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size.

Form the Buns

Transfer the dough back to the floured work surface. Pat into a slightly rounded rectangle, then cut into eight equal squares. Use your hands to shape and pat the squares into discs. Arrange the buns on a floured baking sheet, cover, and let rise until they've doubled in size.

Bake the Buns

Brush the buns with an egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake in a preheated oven until lightly browned. Remove from the oven, allow the buns to cool, and slice in half lengthwise to serve.

Best Burger Recipes for Homemade Hamburger Buns

What's the point of homemade hamburger buns if you don't have homemade hamburger patties to go in them? Try one of these top-rated recipes:

Juiciest Hamburgers EverBest Turkey BurgersQuinoa Black Bean BurgersRanch BurgersBacon-Wrapped Hamburgers

Or, explore our entire collection of Burger Recipes.

How to Store Hamburger Buns

Store the homemade hamburger buns in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to five days. Avoid short term refrigeration, as this will dry them out.

Can You Freeze Hamburger Buns?

Yes, you can freeze homemade hamburger buns (though they're best enjoyed fresh). Transfer the cooled buns to a freezer-safe container, then wrap in a layer of foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to two months. Thaw on a paper towel at room temperature. When it's about halfway thawed, flip the bun, and replace the paper towel.

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise

“This recipe was so simple and fun to make,” according to Kris Allfrey. “The hamburger buns were so light and the crumb texture was perfect. I followed the recipe and Chef John‘s instructions to the letter. I wouldn’t change a thing about this recipe. They are excellent for pulled-pork sandwiches.”

“I didn’t make any changes except for what I put on top of the buns. I put dried onion, parsley, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds,” says Ron Doty-Tolaro. “Also, as a rule of thumb, when making any kind of rising bread, lightly push in on the dough with one finger. If the dough is ready it will bounce back out. If the indentation stays in, knead it more.”

“Loved the buns,” raves Mysti Williams. “I made them for burgers the first time. Tonight, I’m making them for Sloppy Joes. Can’t wait. Truly delicious.”