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Irresistible Pumpkin Custard Buns Recipe Perfect for Fall

pumpkin custard buns - featured image

Soft, fluffy steamed buns filled with luscious golden pumpkin custard, perfect for cozy autumn days and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons (15g) cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
  • Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve granulated sugar and active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  5. In a small saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, heavy cream, cornstarch, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves).
  6. Heat over medium-low, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
  7. Remove from heat and whisk in the egg yolk. Let the custard cool completely before using.
  8. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 10-12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
  9. Flatten each ball into a disc (about 4 inches wide), leaving the center slightly thicker than the edges.
  10. Place a spoonful of cooled pumpkin custard in the center of each disc. Carefully pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside, forming a smooth bun.
  11. Line your steamer with parchment paper to prevent the buns from sticking.
  12. Place the buns into the steamer, leaving enough space between them to expand.
  13. Steam over medium heat for 12-15 minutes. The buns should puff up and become soft to the touch.
  14. Carefully remove the buns from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

[‘Activate your yeast by waiting for it to foam in warm water. If it doesn’t bubble, start over with fresh yeast.’, ‘Let the dough rise properly to achieve pillowy buns. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl in a slightly warm oven or microwave to help the process.’, ‘Seal the buns tightly to avoid filling leaks during steaming.’, ‘Keep an eye on the water level in the steamer to ensure it doesn’t run dry.’, ‘Test one bun first to check for proper texture and filling consistency before steaming the whole batch.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Pumpkin, Custard, Steamed Buns, Fall Recipe, Autumn Dessert, Pumpkin Spice, Easy Recipe, Seasonal Treat