Name: Chocolate Steamed Buns Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 30 min
Cook time: PT-497353H41M14S
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/3 cup (8 oz) semi sweet melting chocolate chips; 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk (110°F or 43°C); 1 1/2 teaspoon (6 g) active dry yeast or instant yeast; 2 cups (300 g) all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup (100 g) wheat starch; 1/2 cup (70 g) powdered sugar; 2 teaspoon (10 g) baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon (15 g) vegetable shortening; 1 large egg white; 1 tablespoon (15 g) vegetable oil

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 27 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a delightful twist on a classic treat, this Chocolate Steamed Buns Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine soft, fluffy buns that practically melt in your mouth, wrapped around a luscious, silky chocolate ganache that’s both rich and comforting. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a special snack, these steamed buns combine Asian-inspired dough techniques with the universal love for chocolate, resulting in a truly irresistible experience. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving these chocolatey delights again and again.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows two clear glass containers placed on a white marbled surface. On the left, there is a clear glass measuring cup filled about halfway with a smooth, pale cream liquid. The measuring cup has red measurement markings on it. On the right, there is a clear glass bowl filled with dark brown, round chocolate chips or discs that have a matte texture. Both containers are simple and transparent, showing their contents clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of these Chocolate Steamed Buns lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each element has a specific role, from the tenderizing wheat starch to the silky ganache, making the finished buns irresistibly soft and flavorful.

Whole milk (¾ cup / 180 ml): Warmed to activate the yeast perfectly, giving the dough a subtle creaminess.

Active dry yeast or instant yeast (1 ½ teaspoons): Essential for light, airy buns through gentle rising.
All-purpose flour (2 cups / 300 g): The backbone of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
Wheat starch (¾ cup / 100 g): Adds a tender, soft texture essential to traditional steamed buns.

Powdered sugar (½ cup / 70 g): Offers subtle sweetness and helps with the dough’s smoothness.
Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Assists in creating a light, fluffy texture.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Vegetable shortening (1 tablespoon): Adds tender richness and helps with the dough’s pliability.

Large egg white (1): Combined with oil, it creates a tender crumb and silkier dough.
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Keeps the dough moist and helps with ease of handling.
Semi-sweet melting chocolate chips (1 ⅓ cup / 8 oz): The star component for the luscious ganache filling, providing deep chocolate flavor.

Heavy cream (1 cup): Heated to make that smooth, creamy, indulgent chocolate ganache that fills the buns.

How to Make Chocolate Steamed Buns Recipe

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Start by heating the heavy cream gently until it's hot and just starting to simmer around the edges, but be careful not to let it boil — this step ensures the cream blends perfectly with the chocolate. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips and let it sit untouched for 10 minutes. Then stir the mixture until it's silky and smooth, creating a heavenly ganache. Chill it uncovered in the fridge for 30 minutes to cool and then cover with cling wrap pressed directly onto the surface to avoid skin formation, chilling for another hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Begin by warming the milk to about 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast effectively. Add the yeast to the milk and let it sit covered for 10 minutes until frothy, confirming the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. Meanwhile, sift together the flour, wheat starch, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt for an even texture. Add the vegetable shortening into the dry mixture and gently break it into small pieces with your hands for an even distribution.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the egg white with vegetable oil, blending thoroughly. This mixture liquefies to contribute to the tender crumb of the buns. Then gradually add the yeast-milk mixture followed by the egg and oil combo into the dry ingredients using your stand mixer on a low setting.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Once combined, increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough forms a smooth, tacky ball that’s no longer sticking to the bowl. Adjust with a tablespoon of water or flour if the dough feels too dry or sticky. Finish by kneading the dough a little by hand, then place it into a greased bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a cozy, warm spot (around 100°F) for about 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

Once risen, divide the dough into 12 even pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball and cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a roughly 4-inch circle with a thicker center. Add a tablespoon of chilled ganache in the middle of each and carefully wrap the dough around to seal it completely, pinching the edges tightly to make sure none of that glorious chocolate escapes during steaming.

Step 6: Final Proof and Steam

Place each bun on parchment squares or cupcake liners to prevent sticking, cover them with a dish towel, and allow them to rest for 15 minutes. Prepare your steamer by boiling water and lining the lid with a cloth to catch condensation. Arrange buns at least 2 inches apart to give them room to expand while steaming for 10 to 12 minutes. Let the buns sit in the steamer for 1 minute after steaming to avoid wrinkling from rapid temperature changes. Depending on your steamer’s size, you might have to do this in batches. Keep any un-steamed buns refrigerated until ready.

How to Serve Chocolate Steamed Buns Recipe

A woman's hand holds a small, round, flat piece of pale dough, slightly stretched, with a smooth texture. On top of the dough is a large scoop of dark brown chocolate filling with a thick, dense look. Another woman's hand is using a shiny silver ice cream scooper to put the filling on the dough. In the background, there is a wooden rolling pin and several dough balls wrapped in plastic on a white marbled surface with circular measurement marks. The lighting is bright, showing clear details of the dough and filling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These buns are a treat on their own, but a delicate dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a pretty finishing touch and a hint of extra sweetness. Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed nuts can also brighten up the presentation and add a bit of contrast to the soft texture.

Side Dishes

Pair the steamed buns with lightly brewed green tea or a warm cup of coffee to complement the rich chocolate flavors. A fresh fruit salad with citrus notes makes a refreshing side that balances the decadence of the bun.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, arrange the buns in a basket lined with a colorful napkin or stack them on a decorative cake stand for a charming display. To impress guests, serve them alongside dipping sauces like raspberry coulis or salted caramel for an interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover steamed buns are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature if consuming within a day. For longer preservation, refrigeration helps keep them safe but may slightly dry out the dough, so reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the buns either before or after steaming. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or in the fridge.

Reheating

The ideal way to reheat is by steaming the buns again for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and soft. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the buns tough and rubbery, losing that perfect fluffy texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast can be used with a slight adjustment in the proofing time since it activates faster. Just mix it directly with the flour and watch the dough rise carefully.

Why is wheat starch important in this recipe?

Wheat starch is crucial for giving these steamed buns their signature silky and tender texture, distinct from regular bread flour, making them delightfully soft.

How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy during steaming?

Make sure to space the buns properly in your steamer, cover the lid with a cloth to catch condensation, and avoid lifting the lid during steaming to keep the environment stable and prevent sogginess.

Can I substitute the chocolate filling?

You can certainly experiment with fillings like sweet red bean paste or custard, but the luscious ganache is what makes this Chocolate Steamed Buns Recipe truly special.

How long can I store the buns in the refrigerator?

Steamed buns stored properly in an airtight container can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator before reheating for best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Steamed Buns Recipe is one of those rare finds that blends comfort and indulgence so beautifully it becomes an instant favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen novice, the process is straightforward, and the results will wow everyone lucky enough to try them. Give these buns a go and share a little sweetness with those you love—you won’t regret it!

Chocolate Steamed Buns Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need