Steamed buns are a favorite snack in many parts of the world, particularly in Chinese and Asian cuisines, where they are filled with various savory or sweet fillings. They’re known for their soft, fluffy texture, which comes from the steaming process. Traditionally, making steamed buns can be time-consuming, requiring specialized equipment like a bamboo steamer or a steamer basket. But what if you could make them in minutes using just a microwave and pancake mix? Yes, it’s possible—and the results are surprisingly delicious!
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make steamed buns using pancake mix and a microwave, so you can enjoy a warm, fluffy treat in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, a snack, or a simple dinner, this method is an easy shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
Ingredients for Steamed Buns Using Pancake Mix
You’ll need just a few basic ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup pancake mix (use your favorite brand of pancake mix, such as Bisquick or any all-purpose pancake mix)
- 1/4 cup water (adjust slightly to achieve a dough-like consistency)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter (for added softness)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, but this helps with fluffiness)
For the Filling (Optional):
You can fill the buns with various ingredients depending on your preferences. Some options include:
- Sweetened red bean paste (common in traditional steamed buns)
- Chocolate chips (for a sweet treat)
- Cream cheese with a bit of sugar (for a sweet and tangy filling)
- Savory fillings like sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken, or pork (if you want to make savory buns)
However, for simplicity, we’ll focus on the plain steamed bun dough, which can be eaten as is or paired with a filling of your choice.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Steamed Buns in the Microwave
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the pancake mix, sugar (if using), and baking powder (if using). Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the water and vegetable oil (or melted butter). Stir with a spoon or your hands until the mixture forms a dough. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more pancake mix; if it’s too dry, add a bit more water. The goal is to have a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds together well.
- Knead the Dough: On a clean surface, knead the dough for about 1–2 minutes until smooth. This helps develop the texture and makes the buns fluffy.
Step 2: Shape the Buns
- Divide the Dough: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You can make them slightly larger or smaller, depending on the size you prefer for your buns.
- Flatten the Dough: Gently flatten each dough ball into a small disk. If you’re adding a filling, now’s the time to place a teaspoon or so of the filling in the center of each disk.
- Seal the Buns: Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch the seams together. You should have a little “pocket” or pouch-like shape. Ensure the buns are sealed well so that the filling doesn’t escape during cooking. If you’re making plain buns without filling, simply leave them as little disks.
Step 3: Prepare the Microwave Steamer
To steam the buns in the microwave, you’ll need a microwave-safe container or bowl with a lid, or you can use a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel. Here’s how to do it:
- Create a Steaming Setup: Line the bottom of your microwave-safe bowl or plate with a damp paper towel or a piece of parchment paper to prevent the buns from sticking. This also helps create some moisture for the steaming process.
- Arrange the Buns: Place the shaped buns on top of the paper towel or parchment, making sure they’re not touching each other. If you’re making multiple buns, you may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your microwave.
- Cover the Buns: Cover the bowl or plate with a microwave-safe lid or another damp paper towel. The cover traps the steam, which is key to achieving that soft, fluffy texture.
Step 4: Microwave the Steamed Buns
- Microwave on High: Microwave the buns on high for 1 to 1.5 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size and number of buns you’re steaming, as well as the power of your microwave. Start with 1 minute and check. If they are not fully cooked, continue microwaving in 15-second intervals.
- Check the Buns: After 1 minute, check the buns. They should have expanded and feel soft and fluffy to the touch. If they’re not fully steamed yet, microwave for another 15–30 seconds until they are cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Let the buns cool for a minute or two, as the steam inside can be quite hot.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Your fluffy steamed buns are now ready to enjoy! You can eat them as they are, or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. If you made sweet or savory fillings, each bite will be a delightful surprise!
Tips for Perfect Steamed Buns
- Adjust the Water: Depending on the brand of pancake mix you use, you may need to adjust the amount of water. Add the water gradually to get the right dough consistency—soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re making a larger batch of buns, steam them in multiple batches. Overcrowding the microwave-safe dish can cause uneven cooking.
- Moisture is Key: To get that fluffy steamed texture, make sure to cover the buns well with a damp paper towel or lid to trap the steam. If you use parchment paper, you can lightly mist it with water before placing the buns on top.
- Filling Variations: Get creative with fillings! In addition to sweet red bean paste or savory meats, you could use things like Nutella, peanut butter, or even scrambled eggs. Just be sure not to overstuff the buns, as it can cause them to break open during steaming.
Serving Suggestions
- Sweet Steamed Buns: Serve your steamed buns as a dessert with a dusting of powdered sugar, or drizzle them with honey or chocolate sauce.
- Savory Steamed Buns: Pair them with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping, or serve them alongside a simple salad or stir-fried vegetables for a full meal.
- Breakfast Buns: For a breakfast treat, you could fill the buns with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked sausage or bacon for a portable breakfast option.
Why Make Steamed Buns Using Pancake Mix?
Traditional steamed buns require a yeast dough and a long process involving proofing, rising, and steaming, which can be time-consuming and require special equipment. Using pancake mix as the base for your buns is a time-saving shortcut that still delivers great results. You get the soft, pillowy texture of a steamed bun without needing to deal with yeast or complex dough preparation.
Additionally, using the microwave for steaming means no need for a bamboo steamer or stovetop steaming pot. It’s an incredibly efficient way to make steamed buns in just a few minutes!
Conclusion
Making steamed buns with pancake mix and a microwave is an easy and quick way to enjoy this delicious treat without all the fuss of traditional methods. In just a few minutes, you can have soft, fluffy buns that are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a simple meal. Whether you enjoy them sweet or savory, these microwave-steamed buns are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Next time you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, give this microwave method a try. It’s the perfect shortcut to enjoying homemade steamed buns in no time!