sesame sauce rolls

How to Make Sesame Seed Flower Buns: A Complete Guide

Sesame seed flower buns, or *majian huajuan*, are a beloved Chinese breakfast treat, prized for their fluffy texture and savory sesame aroma. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to crafting them at home.

Ingredients: For the dough, you’ll need 300ml warm water, 3g active dry yeast, 1 tsp sugar, 500g all-purpose flour, and 1/2 tsp salt. For the filling, mix 3 tbsp sesame paste, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil, and a pinch of five-spice powder. Extra sesame seeds and flour for dusting are also essential.

Steps:

1. Activate yeast: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

2. Make dough: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Pour in yeast mixture and knead into a smooth, elastic dough (about 10 minutes). Let it rise in a greased bowl, covered, for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

3. Prepare filling: Whisk sesame paste, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and five-spice powder until smooth.

4. Shape buns: Punch down the dough and roll it into a 30x40cm rectangle. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a 1cm border. Fold the dough in half lengthwise, then cut into 2cm strips. Twist each strip and coil it into a flower shape.

5. Proof and bake: Place buns on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise for 20 minutes. Brush with milk, sprinkle sesame seeds, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Tips: For extra flavor, toast sesame seeds before use. Serve warm with congee or soy milk. These buns stay fresh for 2 days in an airtight container. Enjoy your homemade, fragrant sesame flower buns!