Chinese Cocktail Buns

Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine milk and 1/3 cup sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add 1/4 cup butter and gently heat until butter melts and the mixture is warm but not hot (no more than 100°F or 40°C). (5 minutes)

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups flour and yeast until well combined. Stir in the warm milk mixture. (2 minutes)

Form the Dough: In a small bowl, beat 1 egg. Stir into the flour mixture until a sticky, wet dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. (3 minutes)

Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, gradually kneading in more flour, as needed, to create a smooth, elastic dough. (10 minutes)

First Rise: Form the dough into a round ball, place it in an oiled bowl, and turn to coat. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in volume (about 1 hour). (1 hour)

Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat 1/2 cup sugar and remaining 1/4 cup softened butter until light and fluffy. Stir in coconut, milk powder, and remaining 1/2 cup flour until smooth and well combined. Set the filling aside. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. (10 minutes)

Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough on a floured surface. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces, then cut each piece into 8 equal-sized pieces (16 pieces total). Form each piece into an oblong shape and flatten with a floured rolling pin. (15 minutes)

Fill the Buns: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of each flattened dough piece. Pull and pinch the edges of the dough together to enclose the filling, forming a tight seal. Place the buns seam-side down onto a prepared baking sheet. (20 minutes)

Second Rise: Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rise in a warm place for 1 hour. (1 hour)

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). (10 minutes)

Egg Wash and Garnish: Beat the remaining 1 egg in a bowl. Brush each bun with the egg wash for a glossy coating. Sprinkle each bun with sesame seeds. (5 minutes)

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown (10-15 minutes). (10-15 minutes)

Cool and Serve: Cool the buns on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy the taste of Hong Kong! (20 minutes)