Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nai Wong Bao combines two of the best aspects of comfort food: soft, fluffy buns and a sweet, creamy filling. The custard is smooth and indulgent, while the bun is light and airy, creating the perfect bite. These buns are relatively simple to make and are a wonderful addition to any meal or celebration. Whether you’re enjoying them for a family dinner or serving them at a party, Dim Sum Steamed Custard Buns are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the Custard Filling:

2 large eggs
1/3 cup + 1 tbsp whole milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup cake flour
1/4 cup powdered milk

For the Bun Dough:

2/3 cup whole milk
1 tsp active dry yeast
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp sugar

Directions

1. Make the Custard Filling:

In a small pot, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add sugar and salt, mixing until fully combined.
Sift in cake flour and powdered milk, stirring to remove any lumps.
Add butter to the mixture and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens into a smooth consistency. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool.
Cover the custard with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Prepare the Bun Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, sugar, flour, and vegetable oil.
Use a stand mixer or knead by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic. This will take about 8-10 minutes of kneading.
Once the dough is well-kneaded, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

3. Shape the Buns:

Once the dough has risen, divide it into 10-12 equal portions, about 50g each. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
Flatten each dough ball into a round disc, keeping the center thicker than the edges.
Place a spoonful of custard filling in the center of each disc.
Pleat and pinch the edges together to seal the bun, ensuring that the custard stays inside.

4. Proof the Buns:

Place the shaped buns on a parchment-lined steamer tray and cover with a clean cloth.
Let the buns rise for about 30 minutes until they are puffed and have doubled in size.

5. Steam the Buns:

Fill a steamer with water and bring it to a boil.
Steam the buns over high heat for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the buns are puffed and soft.
Once done, turn off the heat and let the buns sit in the steamer for an additional 5-10 minutes before carefully removing.

6. Serve:

Serve the custard buns warm, fresh from the steamer. These buns are best enjoyed right away, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them in the microwave.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes (plus resting time)
Total time: 2 hours (including rising time)
Servings: 10-12 buns

Storage and Reheating

Dim Sum Steamed Custard Buns are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the buns for 20-30 seconds or steam them for a few minutes until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different filling instead of custard?

Yes! You can experiment with other fillings such as sweet red bean paste, lotus seed paste for a different take on these buns.

2. Can I use all-purpose flour for the custard?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour, but cake flour will give the custard a lighter texture.

3. Can I freeze these buns?

Yes, you can freeze the buns after they have been steamed and fully cooled. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, steam them directly from the freezer for 5-6 minutes.

4. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute the whole milk with any plant-based milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, to make the recipe dairy-free.

5. How do I know when the buns are done steaming?

The buns are done when they have puffed up and are soft to the touch. You can test one by pressing gently—it should spring back and feel soft and airy.

6. How can I make these buns sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a bit more sugar to the custard or drizzle a little syrup over the buns after steaming.

7. Can I use a bamboo steamer?

Yes, a bamboo steamer works perfectly for steaming these buns. Just make sure to line the steamer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

8. Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer to knead the dough. Use the dough hook attachment and knead the dough on low speed for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

9. Can I make these buns gluten-free?

You can make gluten-free steamed buns by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the texture and adjust the liquid if necessary.

10. How do I get the buns to stay soft after steaming?

To keep the buns soft, steam them on low heat and avoid overcooking. After steaming, let the buns sit in the steamer for a few minutes to allow them to firm up gently.

Conclusion

Dim Sum Steamed Custard Buns (Nai Wong Bao) are a delightful and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their soft, pillowy buns and creamy custard filling, these buns are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a family gathering, or just because, these delicious homemade custard buns will transport you straight to your favorite dim sum restaurant! Enjoy!

Dim Sum Steamed Custard Buns (Nai Wong Bao): A Delicious Comfort Food Classic

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Dim Sum Steamed Custard Buns (Nai Wong Bao) are a beloved dim sum dish featuring soft, pillowy buns filled with a sweet, creamy custard that melts in your mouth. These no-bake buns are the perfect comfort food and can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including rising and resting times)
Yield: 10-12 buns
Category: Dessert
Method: Steaming
Cuisine: Chinese
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Make the Custard Filling: In a small pot, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add sugar and salt, mixing until fully combined. Sift in cake flour and powdered milk, stirring to remove any lumps. Add butter and cook over low heat, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and cool, refrigerate until ready to use.
Prepare the Bun Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, sugar, flour, and vegetable oil. Knead until smooth and elastic (8-10 minutes). Cover and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, divide it into 10-12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, flatten into discs, and place a spoonful of custard in the center. Pleat and seal the dough around the filling.
Proof the Buns: Place buns on a parchment-lined steamer tray. Cover with a cloth and let rise for 30 minutes until puffed.
Steam the Buns: Bring water to a boil in a steamer and steam the buns over high heat for 10-12 minutes, until cooked and puffed. Let sit in the steamer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Serve: Remove the buns from the steamer and serve warm. These buns are best enjoyed right away, but leftovers can be stored and reheated.