Bao Buns

Instructions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the water, milk, sugar, and yeast. Cover and let it rest until it becomes foamy about 5 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. When the yeast mixture is frothy add in the flour mixture and mix on medium speed using a dough hook until the dough forms, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Increase the speed to medium-high and mix for another 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and not sticking to the sides of the bowl.
5. Dump the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a smooth ball. Lightly oil a bowl and place the dough in it. Cover and let the dough rest for at least 1 hour. The dough should double in size.
6. While the dough rises, cut parchment paper into 4-inch squares and set aside.
7. Dump the risen dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to an even ¼-inch thickness.
8. Using a 3-inch diameter cookie cutter or cup, cut the dough out into circles. Brush the top of each bun with additional vegetable oil and fold the buns in half, gently pressing them down to fold.
9. Place each bun on a piece of parchment paper on the pan, cover, and let the buns rise for another 30-45 minutes.
10. Prepare the steamer by adding 2 cups of water to a large pot, fit the pot with a steamer ring. When the buns are ready, bring the water to a boil.
11. Fill the steamer basket with the buns, leaving at least 1 inch of space between the buns. Place the steamer basket on the steamer ring on top of the pot and steam the buns for 10-12 minutes.
12. They will fluff up and be firm to the touch without sticking to your fingers. You will need to work in batches.
13. Fill the finished buns with your choice of filling, and enjoy!