Air Fryer Hamburger Buns Recipe

There's nothing quite like homemade air fryer hamburger buns to elevate your burger game. As an avid home cook, I've tried numerous bun recipes, but this one holds a special place in my heart. Why?

Because the air fryer introduces a texture and lightness that's unparalleled. Unlike traditional methods that can leave your buns dense or overly crispy, this version achieves that perfect balance: a soft inside with just the right hint of a crusty exterior.

It's a game-changer, folks. Once you've tasted these buns, you'll wonder how you ever settled for any other recipe.

Video Tutorial

Ingredients

• 250 grams bread flour
• 2.5 grams dry yeast
• 120 ml milk
• 22 grams sugar
• 4 grams salt
• 2 eggs
• 18 grams butter
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Air fryer parchment paper
• Silicone brush
• Small bowl
• Spoon

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine room-temperature milk, one egg, sugar, and dry yeast. Mix well and add the bread flour. Mix all the ingredients in the bowl with a spoon.

Transfer the dough onto a wooden surface and proceed to knead it by hand, incorporating a small amount of flour during the process. The dough shouldn't stick too much to your hands, but it should remain slightly sticky. Continue kneading the dough for 5 minutes.

Allow the dough to rest and proof for about 40 minutes. The dough should expand in size by 2 to 3 times.

Note:​​ The exact proofing time depends on the temperature of the ingredients and the environment.

When the dough has at least doubled in size, add salt and the softened butter. Knead the dough again for 5 minutes. 

Return the dough to the bowl, covering it with a lid, and let it rest for another 30 minutes. Note that the resting time varies with the temperature. If it's cooler, allow more time, but make sure that the temperature remains within the range of 86-90°F (30-32°C).

When the dough has expanded by at least twice its original size, remove it from the bowl. Divide it into four equal portions, around 100 grams (4 oz) each. 

Shape each portion into a round bun by gently stretching the dough over its surface, creating tension to make the dough elastic.

Place the buns in the air fryer basket. There's no need to preheat the air fryer. Simply put the basket back in. Lightly press the top of each bun with your hand. Allow the buns to continue proofing for another 30 minutes. The air fryer basket serves well for this purpose.

After 30-40 minutes, make sure the buns have expanded by approximately 2 times. In a small bowl, whisk an egg with milk, then brush this mixture over the buns. The egg wash gives the bun a shiny, golden color; however, you can skip this step if you prefer. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the buns.

Preheat your air fryer—I’m using the Instant Vortex Plus XL—to 320°F (160°C) along with the buns. The air fryer heats up quickly in about 2-3 minutes. Bake the hamburger buns for approximately 25 minutes.

These buns can be used for hamburgers or breakfast, spread with butter, or simply enjoyed on their own.

Tips for Adjusting the Cooking Time and Temperature

• Always keep an eye on your buns during the first few times you make them. Air fryers can vary in their cooking intensity.
• If you notice your buns are browning too quickly, reduce the temperature by 20°F (10°C) and extend the cooking time by 5 minutes.
• In the opposite case, if they seem pale, increase the temperature slightly for the last few minutes to get that golden hue.

Serving Recommendations

• Serve these buns fresh out of the air fryer with a juicy homemade burger patty, lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of condiments for the ultimate burger experience.
• They also pair well with hearty soups or stews, providing a comforting crunch on the side.
• For a breakfast twist, split the bun in half, toast lightly, and fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• For a whole wheat version, replace half the bread flour with whole wheat flour. Adjust the moisture if needed, as whole wheat tends to absorb more water. Using a blend of flours gives your buns an added nutty undertone and an extra dose of dietary fiber.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist.
• Incorporating grated cheese will also add a hint of flavor to your bread.
• If you're looking for a sweeter bun, consider adding raisins or dried cranberries into the mix.
• Swap out dairy milk for plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk to make the buns vegan-friendly

Leftover Storage​​

• These buns store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze. They can be stored frozen for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat in the air fryer or oven before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

• Always use room temperature ingredients, as they aid in proper yeast activation and dough consistency.
• When kneading, if the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in some additional flour.
• The proofing times are crucial for the texture of the buns. Never rush this process; let the yeast work its magic.

FAQs

There you have it, fellow foodies! The magic of the air fryer has transformed the humble hamburger bun into a delight for the senses.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Explore our blog for more tantalizing air fryer recipes that promise culinary adventures.

And if you've given this air fryer hamburger buns recipe a whirl, we'd love to hear from you. Drop a comment and share your experience.

Until next time, happy cooking!

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