Sometimes we all crave a comfort meal. Instead of aiming for perfection, I prefer small, mindful choices that feel good and sustainable—like baking homemade buns instead of buying ultra-processed ones from the store.
This recipe is simple, cozy, and perfect for a calm baking moment between work tasks or at the beginning of the weekend. Whether you’re preparing burgers, sandwiches, or just enjoying warm bread with butter, these buns are a lovely addition to a balanced lifestyle.
Why Homemade Buns?
Store-bought bread often contains preservatives, additives, and a long list of ingredients you wouldn’t use at home and due to lack of time we forget to check the ingredients list. Baking your own buns allows you to control what goes into your food, enjoy a slower routine, and turn any meal into a more mindful choice.
For me, cozy baking is part of crafting balance in life and work—a small ritual that supports focus, creativity, and well-being.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 500 g flour (I used a mix of white and rye flour)
- 50 g butter (82% fat)
- 210 ml whole milk
- 100 ml water
- 1 egg
- 15 g fresh yeast or 4 g dry yeast
- ~20 g sugar
- ~10 g salt
For topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- Mixed seeds (flax seeds, poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or your favorites)
Method
- Warm the liquids
In a small pot, combine the water, milk, and butter. Heat gently until the butter melts, but do not let the mixture boil. - Let it cool
Allow the mixture to cool until it feels warm (not hot) to the touch. - Start the dough
In a large bowl, mix 300 g of the flour with sugar and yeast. Add the warm liquid mixture and stir until a dough starts to form. Add the egg and mix well. - Add remaining flour and salt
Mix the remaining flour with the salt and incorporate it into the dough. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. - Divide and shape
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round bun (they don’t need to be tall—they will rise later). Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. - Let them rise
Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for about 45 minutes, until visibly puffed. - Prepare the topping
Mix the egg yolk with 2 tablespoons of milk. Brush the buns gently with this mixture for a shiny finish. - Add seeds
Sprinkle your favorite seeds on top, or leave them plain. - Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 15–25 minutes (it depends on your oven), until golden brown.
Mindful Portions & Balanced Indulgence
Cheat meals don’t have to mean overindulgence. For me, balance also means being mindful of portions—enjoying a homemade bun or two, pairing them with protein, vegetables, or soup, and listening to how my body feels. Baking at home makes it easier to control both ingredients and quantity, turning comfort food into a conscious, guilt-free choice.
Cozy Serving Ideas
- Use them for homemade burgers or sandwiches
- Serve warm with butter and jam
- Pair with soup or salad for a comforting meal
Crafting Balance in Life & Work
Baking doesn’t have to be perfect or complicated. Small, cozy rituals like this can make a busy workday feel slower and more intentional. For remote workers, moments like these can help reset the mind, reduce stress, and support better focus.
More cozy routines and mindful lifestyle tips are coming soon on Crafting Quality.