Chinese Coconut Buns

Soft, fluffy, and delightfully sweet, Chinese Coconut Buns are a classic bakery treat infused with tropical flair. Each tender bun encases a rich, buttery filling made with desiccated coconut, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla, creating a heavenly contrast between the pillowy dough and the creamy, aromatic center. Topped with a golden egg wash and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, these buns bake to perfection with a lightly crisp exterior. Ideal for breakfast, tea time, or dessert, this recipe combines simple ingredients and traditional techniques to deliver a homemade touch to a beloved Chinese pastry. Perfectly portable and irresistibly fragrant, Chinese Coconut Buns are a truly rewarding baking project for any level of cook.

Nutriscore Rating: 54/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 360 grams all-purpose flour
• 50 grams granulated sugar
• 180 milliliters whole milk
• 30 grams unsalted butter
• 7 grams instant yeast
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 100 grams desiccated coconut
• 50 grams powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.

Step 2

Warm the milk to about 38°C (lukewarm) and whisk in the instant yeast. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes until frothy.

Step 3

Add the yeast mixture, 1 large egg, and softened unsalted butter to the dry ingredients.

Step 4

Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer for 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6

While the dough is proofing, prepare the coconut filling. In a bowl, mix the desiccated coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until it forms a cohesive paste.

Step 7

Punch down the dough to release air and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.

Step 8

Flatten each dough ball into a circle and place about 1 tablespoon of the coconut filling in the center. Pinch the edges together to seal, then shape into a small oval. Place the buns seam-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 9

Cover the shaped buns loosely with a damp towel and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until they are puffy and almost doubled in size.

Step 10

Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make the egg wash and brush it over the buns. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.

Step 11

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 12

Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(906.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2937.9

Total Fat 118.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 80.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.2g
Cholesterol 494.2mg	0%
Sodium 2656.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 412.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 29.0g	0%
Total Sugars 117.3g
Protein 67.9g	0%

Vitamin D 176.4IU	0%
Calcium 372.4mg	0%
Iron 22.7mg	0%
Potassium 1472.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.6%

Protein: 9.1%

Carbs: 55.3%