The moment I lifted the lid off my steamer, I was greeted by a fluffy cloud of warmth that instantly transported me back to my childhood. The enticing aroma of Corn Cheese Bao Buns wafted through the kitchen, reminding me of playful afternoons spent savoring homemade treats. These delightful buns, filled with a creamy corn and cheesy goodness, are a perfect twist on comfort food that promises to elevate your dining experience.
I had been searching for a recipe that could charm both my family and friends while offering something new and exciting. After a little experimentation, I discovered these Corn Cheese Bao Buns—a seamless blend of flavors and textures that’s bound to impress. They’re surprisingly simple to make and provide a delightful alternative to the usual fast food fare. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply looking to treat yourself, these buns are not just crowd-pleasers but also a joyful way to reconnect with homemade goodness. Join me as we embark on this flavorful journey!
Why are Corn Cheese Bao Buns a must-make?
Deliciously Unique: These buns are filled with a creamy mix of corn, mayonnaise, and cheese, offering a delightful surprise with every bite.
Crowd-Pleasing Fun: Perfect for gatherings, their fluffy texture and rich flavors are guaranteed to impress friends and family.
Simple Preparation: With only a few hands-on steps, this recipe is approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for any occasion, whether as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, they fit seamlessly into your dinner spread.
Creative Twist on Tradition: Bring a delightful Asian flare to your table, transforming your typical comfort food into something truly memorable!
For more savory inspirations, be sure to check out our homemade dim sum ideas. Enjoy the journey of culinary bliss with these Corn Cheese Bao Buns!
Corn Cheese Bao Buns Ingredients
• Dive into this delightful recipe with these essential ingredients!
For the Dough
- 4 cups bread flour – sifted and leveled for the perfect texture.
- 1 tsp instant yeast – provides that lovely, fluffy rise.
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1 tsp salt – enhances the overall taste of the buns.
- 1.5 tsp baking powder – contributes to the lightness of the dough.
- 0.5 cup water plus 2 Tbsp – hydration is key, so make sure it’s warm!
- 1 Tbsp light olive oil – adds a subtle richness to the dough.
For the Filling
- 1 can whole corn kernels (15 oz) – brings a burst of sweet flavor and texture.
- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise – creates a creamy, delicious base for the filling.
- 0.25 cup parmesan cheese – adds a savory depth that complements the corn.
- 1 Tbsp dried parsley flakes – offers a refreshing herbal note to the filling.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese – sliced into medallions, bringing gooey goodness to each bun.
Gather these ingredients and prepare to create your own delightful batch of Corn Cheese Bao Buns!
How to Make Corn Cheese Bao Buns
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Blend the cooked corn kernels in a blender until creamy and smooth. This will be the delicious filling for your buns, so make sure it’s well blended and set it aside for later.
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Combine the dry ingredients in a stand mixer: bread flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed, preparing a solid base for your dough.
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Add the corn puree and water to the dry mixture. Knead the dough on low speed for about 1 minute until it starts to come together. This helps incorporate that creamy goodness into your dough.
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Pour in the olive oil and continue kneading for 8 to 10 minutes. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic—feel free to check it by pressing gently; it should spring back.
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Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until doubled in size, which should take about 60 to 90 minutes. This is the perfect time to brew a cup of tea and relax!
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Cook the corn with mayonnaise and parmesan cheese in a skillet until hot. Stir in parsley flakes and allow the mixture to cool; this creates a creamy filling bursting with flavor.
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Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12-14 equal pieces on a floured surface. This is an exciting step as you prepare to shape your cute buns!
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Roll each piece into a disc. Add 2 tablespoons of your delicious filling and top it with a slice of mozzarella. Remember, the more filling, the better!
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Wrap the dough around the filling, securing it well. Place each bun on parchment paper, then let them rise for another 20-30 minutes. Patience is key for fluffy buns!
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Boil water to prepare your steamer. The steaming process will give your bao buns that light, airy texture we all love.
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Steam for 15 minutes until fluffy and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve expanded beautifully and look irresistibly soft.
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Lift the buns from the steamer very carefully, as they will be hot and delicate. Enjoy them warm, and get ready for those comforting flavors to win over your taste buds!
Optional: Garnish with some extra parsley flakes for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Corn Cheese Bao Buns?
Elevate your meal by pairing these fluffy, savory buns with delightful sides that enhance their cheesy goodness.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed and seasoned, this adds a vibrant crunch that balances the soft buns.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: A drizzle of sriracha-infused soy sauce brings bold flavors, perfectly complementing the creamy filling.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A fresh slaw with sesame dressing adds a crunch and tang that contrasts beautifully with the soft bao.
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Soy Sauce and Vinegar Dip: This classic combination adds a savory kick that enhances the rich flavors of the buns. Just a splash will do!
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Mango Salad: Fresh, ripe mango with a squeeze of lime offers a sweet and zesty counterpoint, lightening up the meal.
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Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea cleanses the palate, making each bite of your Corn Cheese Bao Buns feel refreshing.
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Coconut Rice Pudding: For a dessert pairing, this creamy treat with hints of coconut provides a sweet finish after your savory feast.
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Pickled Vegetables: Tangy, pickled salads add a punch of flavor that refreshes the palate between bites of your delectable buns.
Enjoy the experience of crafting a meal that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart!
How to Store and Freeze Corn Cheese Bao Buns
Fridge: Store leftover Corn Cheese Bao Buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bao buns in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, steam the frozen buns directly from the freezer for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness again!
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the buns within a day, leave them covered at room temperature; this will keep them soft and delicious.
Corn Cheese Bao Buns Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful bao buns and explore new flavor profiles!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute bread flour with a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to keep everyone happy.
- Spicy Add-In: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the filling for a zesty kick that awakens the taste buds.
- Herb-Infused: Swap out parsley for fresh cilantro or chives; both provide a refreshing twist to the classic taste.
- Creamy Alternative: Replace mayonnaise with cream cheese for a richer and more decadent filling that melts beautifully.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms in the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheesy Surprise: Mix in some cheddar cheese alongside mozzarella for a delightful blend that enhances the gooey texture.
- Savory Umami: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce to the filling mixture for an extra layer of savory flavor that transforms the buns.
- Sweet Twist: For a unique dessert version, add a spoonful of chocolate or butterscotch chips into the filling; it will feel like a delightful surprise inside!
Embrace your culinary creativity and enjoy the adventure of making these Corn Cheese Bao Buns uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Corn Cheese Bao Buns
Dough Consistency: Make sure the dough is smooth and elastic; if it’s too sticky, add a little more flour. A well-kneaded dough will create fluffy Corn Cheese Bao Buns.
Filling Balance: Don’t overload the filling; 2 tablespoons is ideal. Too much filling can cause the buns to burst during steaming.
Rising Time: Allow the dough ample time to rise until doubled in size. Don’t rush this step; the longer it rises, the fluffier your buns will be.
Steaming Setup: Ensure the steamer has enough water to prevent drying out. Check the water level occasionally for consistent steam throughout the cooking time.
Serve Fresh: Best enjoyed warm, these buns lose their magic when cooled. Serve them immediately for that lovely soft texture and gooey cheese!
Make Ahead Options
These Corn Cheese Bao Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps, knead the dough, and let it rise (step 5). After it has risen, punch it down and then wrap your filling in the dough and secure each bun before placing them on parchment paper. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy your buns, just remove them from the fridge and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes while you boil water for steaming. This method ensures your buns will be just as delicious and fluffy, offering a homemade touch with minimal effort!
Corn Cheese Bao Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right corn for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using canned whole corn kernels, as they are sweet and tender. When choosing canned corn, look for varieties without added sugar or preservatives. If you prefer fresher options, you can use frozen corn; just ensure it’s cooked and well-drained before blending.
How should I store leftover Corn Cheese Bao Buns?
Store your leftover Corn Cheese Bao Buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their fluffy texture. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing!
Can I freeze Corn Cheese Bao Buns for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cooked buns in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 2 months. This method helps them maintain their shape without sticking together.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date before using it. If the environment is too chilly, try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area, perhaps near a preheated oven. It should rise in about 60 to 90 minutes, so keep an eye on it!
Are Corn Cheese Bao Buns safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! These buns contain gluten from bread flour and dairy due to cheese and mayonnaise. For a gluten-free option, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend and dairy-free alternatives. Always check specific ingredient labels for allergens to ensure they comply with any dietary restrictions.
Irresistible Corn Cheese Bao Buns You’ll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the cooked corn kernels in a blender until creamy and smooth.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a stand mixer: bread flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir well.
- Add the corn puree and water to the dry mixture. Knead the dough on low speed for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the olive oil and continue kneading for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until doubled in size (60 to 90 minutes).
- Cook the corn with mayonnaise and parmesan cheese in a skillet until hot. Stir in parsley flakes and allow the mixture to cool.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12-14 equal pieces on a floured surface.
- Roll each piece into a disc. Add 2 tablespoons of filling and top with a slice of mozzarella.
- Wrap the dough around the filling and place each bun on parchment paper, then let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Boil water to prepare your steamer.
- Steam for 15 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.
- Lift the buns from the steamer carefully and enjoy them warm.
