Pineapple Bun: A Chinese Bakery Delight, Air Fryer Style!
Are you craving the sweet, caramelized goodness of a traditional Chinese pineapple bun but short on time and oven space? Fear not! This recipe shows you how to achieve that perfect, crispy top and soft, fluffy inside using an air fryer. Get ready to enjoy this iconic treat in a fraction of the time!
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't just about speed; it's about achieving that authentic pineapple bun experience without the fuss. We'll break down each step to ensure a perfectly textured bun, every time. We're focusing on:
- Speed & Efficiency: Air frying drastically reduces cooking time compared to traditional baking methods.
- Crispy Topping: We'll achieve that signature, slightly sweet and crunchy top without sacrificing the soft interior.
- Simplified Process: This recipe streamlines the traditional method, making it accessible to even beginner bakers.
- Authentic Flavor: We maintain the classic pineapple bun taste using readily available ingredients.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Dough:
- 250g Bread Flour (You can substitute with all-purpose flour, but bread flour yields a better texture)
- 35g Granulated Sugar
- 5g Instant Dry Yeast
- 100ml Milk (lukewarm)
- 25g Unsalted Butter (softened)
- 1 Egg Yolk (lightly beaten)
- 5g Salt
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 50g Granulated Sugar
- 25g All-Purpose Flour
- 25g Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1 Egg Yolk (lightly beaten)
- 1/4 tsp Pineapple Extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine lukewarm milk and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add flour and sugar to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the softened butter, egg yolk, and salt. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. (A stand mixer is helpful, but you can knead by hand for about 10-15 minutes).
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Pineapple Topping:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, melted butter, egg yolk, and pineapple extract (if using).
Shaping and Air Frying:
- Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
- Apply Topping: Gently flatten each bun and spread a generous amount of the pineapple topping evenly over the surface.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the buns in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. You may need to flip halfway through for even browning.
Serving and Enjoying:
Let the pineapple buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will ensure even cooking and crispy tops.
- Monitor the buns closely during air frying to prevent burning.
- Experiment with the topping. Add some sesame seeds or a sprinkle of coarse sugar for extra texture and flavor.
This air fryer pineapple bun recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Chinese treat with modern convenience. Enjoy!
