bean paste cakes

A Guide to Making Red Bean Paste Buns

Red bean paste buns, a beloved treat across Asia, combine soft, fluffy dough with sweet, aromatic red bean paste. Here’s a simple guide to making them at home.

For the dough, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp yeast, 1 tbsp sugar, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add ¾ cup warm milk and 2 tbsp melted butter, kneading until smooth. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled.

For the filling, prepare store-bought or homemade red bean paste: soak red beans overnight, boil until tender, then mash with sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring until thick.

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide into small balls. Flatten each ball, wrap a spoonful of filling, and seal edges tightly. Place on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise for 15 minutes. Steam for 12–15 minutes over medium heat, or bake at 180°C for 20 minutes until golden.

Enjoy these buns plain or dusted with powdered sugar. They’re perfect as a snack or dessert, pairing well with tea or coffee. Experiment with fillings like matcha or sesame for variety!