Upgrade To A Jalapeno Bun 1.50 Recipe

Jalapeño Bun (makes 8 buns)

1. 1

   Activate yeast and combine liquids

   Whisk warm water (about 105–115°F / 40–46°C), milk, granulated sugar and instant yeast in a small bowl. Let sit 5–7 minutes until foamy. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat 1 egg; set aside.

2. 2

   Mix dough

   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook (or in a large bowl for hand mixing), combine 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1 tsp salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture, softened butter and beaten egg. Mix on low until a shaggy dough forms, then increase speed to medium and knead 6–8 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If dough is too sticky, add up to 2 tbsp (approx. 15 g) more flour; if too dry, add 1 tbsp warm water.

3. 3

   Fold in jalapeños and cheddar

   Turn mixer to low and add the finely diced jalapeños and shredded cheddar. Knead 1–2 minutes until evenly distributed. The jalapeños should be spread throughout but not pureed into the dough.

4. 4

   First rise

   Shape dough into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm draft-free place until doubled in size, about 60–75 minutes.

5. 5

   Shape buns

   Punch down the risen dough to release gas. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 8 equal pieces (about 90–100 g each). Pre-shape each piece into a round by tucking edges under, then roll between your palms or on the counter to make smooth buns. Place buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.

6. 6

   Second rise

   Cover the shaped buns loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

7. 7

   Prepare egg wash and preheat oven

   About 10 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk together 1 egg and 1 tsp water to make an egg wash.

8. 8

   Finish and bake

   Brush the tops of the risen buns gently with the egg wash. If desired, press one pickled jalapeño slice onto the center of each bun. Bake in the preheated oven for 16–20 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the buns are deep golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Internal temperature should reach about 190–200°F (88–93°C).

9. 9

   Cool and serve

   Transfer buns to a wire rack and cool at least 15 minutes before slicing and using as an upgraded bun for sandwiches. Buns keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.