As the sun begins to set and the air fills with the sweet scent of corn, I am often reminded of the joy that comes from creating something special in my kitchen. This Corn Cheese Bao Bun recipe is an unexpected treasure that transforms simple ingredients into delightful steamed buns that are both comforting and satisfying. With a filling that combines the sweet crunch of corn, rich parmesan, and creamy mozzarella, these buns are guaranteed to impress at any gathering, or even just for a cozy night in.
The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! Perfect for those looking to break away from fast food and rediscover the joys of homemade meals, these fluffy, flavorful treats are a new take on a classic favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on this wonderful culinary adventure together—your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Corn Cheese Bao Buns so delightful?
Unique Flavor Profile: These Corn Cheese Bao Buns marry sweet corn with rich parmesan and creamy mozzarella for an irresistible flavor burst.
Easy Preparation: The recipe breaks down into simple steps, making it perfect for kitchen novices and seasoned chefs alike.
Perfect for Gatherings: With 14 servings, these fluffy buns are a fantastic choice for family feasts or cozy get-togethers.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily add your favorite herbs or spices to tailor the filling to your taste.
Time-Saving: While they do take about 2 hours, most of that time is hands-off, allowing you to relax while the dough rises.
Satisfying Comfort Food: These buns are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy as an appetizer or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce!
Corn Cheese Bao Buns Ingredients
These delightful buns are filled with sweet corn and cheesy goodness, making them a must-try treat!
For the Dough
• Bread flour – 4 cups (480 g), sifted and leveled for the perfect texture.
• Instant yeast – 1 tsp, ensuring a light and fluffy rise.
• Granulated sugar – 3 Tbsp, balancing the dough’s flavor.
• Salt – 1 tsp, enhancing the overall taste of the buns.
• Baking powder – 1 ½ tsp, contributing to the buns’ airy structure.
• Water – ½ cup plus 2 Tbsp, needed to hydrate the dough.
• Light olive oil – 1 Tbsp, adding moisture and richness.
For the Filling
• Whole corn kernels – 1 (15 oz) can, providing a sweet crunch that complements the cheese.
• Mayonnaise – 2 Tbsp, adding creaminess to the filling.
• Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, delivering a savory depth of flavor.
• Dried parsley flakes – 1 Tbsp, brightening the filling with a touch of freshness.
• Fresh mozzarella cheese – 8 oz, sliced into medallions for a gooey, cheesy center.
Get ready to treat your family and friends to these Corn Cheese Bao Buns, as they are sure to become a beloved recipe in your home!
How to Make Corn Cheese Bao Buns
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Prepare Corn Puree: Blend the cooked corn kernels in a blender until creamy and smooth. Set aside while you work on the dough.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir together until well combined.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the corn puree and water to the dry mixture. Knead the dough on low speed (speed 2) for about 1 minute until mostly combined.
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Add Olive Oil: Pour in the olive oil and continue kneading for 8 to 10 minutes, until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the bowl.
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Let Dough Rise: Transfer the dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size, about 60 to 90 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: In a pan, cook the 1 ½ cup of corn with mayonnaise and parmesan cheese until hot and bubbling. Stir in the parsley at the end, then set aside to cool.
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Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and place it on a floured surface. Divide it into 12-14 equal pieces.
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Form the Buns: Roll each piece into a round disc. Place 2 tablespoons of the corn-cheese filling in the center and top with a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese.
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Shape and Rise Again: Wrap the dough around the filling, securing it well. Place each bun on a parchment square or steaming paper, then cover and let rise for 20-30 minutes.
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Prepare the Steamer: Boil water to prepare your steamer. Once boiling, carefully transfer the buns to the steaming pan.
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Steam the Buns: Steam the buns for 15 minutes until they are fluffy and cooked through.
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Serve Warm: Gently lift the buns from the steaming pan using a spatula and enjoy them warm.
Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Corn Cheese Bao Buns Variations
Feel free to experiment and make these buns uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Use a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour and xanthan gum to achieve a similar texture. Your guests will love this option!
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Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a zesty surprise. The heat contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of corn.
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Herb Infusion: Substitute dried parsley with fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for a fresh and vibrant flavor. These herbs can really elevate your filling!
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Vegan-Friendly: Swap out the mayonnaise and cheese for plant-based alternatives. Silken tofu or cashew cream can add creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
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Sweet Variation: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey into the dough for subtly sweet buns that pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.
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Texture Twist: For added crunch, mix in some cooked and diced onions or bell peppers into the filling. This adds not just flavor, but a lovely texture!
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Savory Options: Add crumbled cooked sausage or ground beef to the filling for a heartier version, perfect for main courses on cozy nights.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or fontina for varying flavor profiles. The world is your cheese platter, so make it wild!
How to Store and Freeze Corn Cheese Bao Buns
Room Temperature: Keep leftover buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness without drying out.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the buns in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the steamer or microwave before serving.
Freezer: Freeze the Corn Cheese Bao Buns for up to 3 months. Wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
Reheating: To reheat, steam the frozen buns for about 10-12 minutes directly from the freezer for best results. Enjoy them warm and fluffy!
Tips for the Best Corn Cheese Bao Buns
Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough forms a smooth ball; if too sticky, add a touch more flour during kneading.
Filling Temperature: Let the filling cool before wrapping it, as hot filling can make the dough soggy and hard to seal.
Steaming Method: Use a bamboo steamer or a steaming rack and ensure the water is boiling before placing the buns to prevent them from becoming tough.
Check Doneness: Steam for 15 minutes, but if unsure, check one bun— it should be puffy and airy inside.
Customize Fillings: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables to your corn cheese filling for added flavor and texture.
Enjoy the delightful experience of making your Corn Cheese Bao Buns and watch them become a family favorite!
What to Serve with Corn Cheese Bao Buns?
Elevate your mealtime experience with these delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the savory sweetness of your buns.
- Tangy Dipping Sauce: A zesty chili-garlic sauce adds a spicy kick that enhances the buttery corn flavor in the buns.
- Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: Pair these with a fresh crunch, making an exciting contrast to the soft texture of the buns.
- Sesame Ginger Noodle Salad: This cold salad brings refreshing flavors that harmonize beautifully with the warm, cheesy filling.
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of the potatoes with roasted garlic provides a hearty side that balances the lightness of the buns.
A fun option allows you to create a little platter! Create a small buffet-style spread with buns, sauce, and salad for a festive gathering.
- Sweet Mango Salsa: A tropical fruit salsa adds a bright, sweet tang that will make your guests smile and provide a lovely burst of flavor.
- Coconut Cream Dessert: Finish with a creamy, coconut-infused dessert that complements the corn’s sweetness while providing a comforting end to the meal.
These pairings will turn your meal into a delightful feast that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Make Ahead Options
These Corn Cheese Bao Buns are ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before you need to shape and steam the buns, preserving that fluffy texture. Additionally, the corn-cheese filling can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; this ensures that the flavors meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply shape the buns from the chilled dough, allow them to rise for about 20-30 minutes, and then steam as directed. Trust me, they’ll taste just as delightful as if made fresh that day!
Corn Cheese Bao Buns Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing corn, look for kernels that are bright yellow and firm to the touch. If you’re using canned corn, ensure the can is not dented and that the corn is free from dark spots, as these indicate spoilage. Fresh is always best, but canned also works wonderfully in this recipe!
How should I store leftover Corn Cheese Bao Buns?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just reheat them in a steamer or microwave to enjoy them warm again!
Can I freeze Corn Cheese Bao Buns?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can steam them straight from the freezer—about 10-12 minutes should do the trick. Perfect for a cozy day!
What if my dough is too sticky or dry?
The consistency of your dough is key to fluffy buns! If your dough feels sticky during kneading, try adding a tablespoon of bread flour at a time until it feels smooth and pulls away from the bowl. Conversely, if it’s too dry and crumbly, sprinkle in a little more water, one teaspoon at a time, to achieve that perfect, supple texture.
Are Corn Cheese Bao Buns safe for my pet?
It’s lovely to share with our furry friends, but keep in mind that these buns contain ingredients like cheese and mayonnaise that may not be suitable for pets. Cheese in moderation is usually fine for dogs, but always consult your vet about your pet’s dietary needs before sharing any human food!
Can I add more ingredients to customize the filling?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative! You can add cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños for heat, or even sautéed mushrooms for an earthy element. Just make sure not to overfill your buns, as this may affect their ability to seal properly. Enjoy experimenting with your Corn Cheese Bao Buns!
Delicious Corn Cheese Bao Buns for Your Next Family Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Corn Puree: Blend the cooked corn kernels in a blender until creamy and smooth. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer, combine bread flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir well.
- Combine Ingredients: Add corn puree and water to dry mixture. Knead on low speed for about 1 minute.
- Add Olive Oil: Pour in the olive oil and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth.
- Let Dough Rise: Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 60 to 90 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Cook corn with mayonnaise and parmesan cheese until hot, then stir in parsley and cool.
- Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12-14 equal pieces on a floured surface.
- Form the Buns: Roll each piece into a disc. Add 2 tbsp of filling and top with a slice of mozzarella.
- Shape and Rise Again: Wrap dough around filling, secure well, place on parchment, and let rise for 20-30 minutes.
- Prepare the Steamer: Boil water to prepare your steamer.
- Steam the Buns: Steam for 15 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve Warm: Lift the buns from the steamer carefully and enjoy warm.