Skip to main content

custard bun recipe.

 


Custard Bun Recipe (Liu Sha Bao / Nai Wong Bao)

Custard Buns are a popular dim sum favorite with soft, fluffy steamed bread filled with creamy, sweet custard. Known as Nai Wong Bao in Cantonese (sweet custard bun) and sometimes as Liu Sha Bao (lava custard bun with runny centers), these buns are light, pillowy, and irresistible.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make authentic homemade custard buns with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft and fluffy steamed buns.
  • Rich, creamy custard filling.
  • Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
  • Just like your favorite dim sum restaurant!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp instant yeast
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup warm milk (or water)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Custard Filling:

  • 2 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Custard Filling

  1. In a saucepan, whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and flour.
  2. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla.
  5. Cool completely, then refrigerate (filling thickens as it chills).

2. Make the Dough

  1. In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add warm milk and oil, knead until a smooth dough forms (8–10 minutes).
  3. Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

3. Assemble the Buns

  1. Punch down dough, divide into 12 pieces.
  2. Roll each piece into a ball, flatten slightly.
  3. Place 1–2 tbsp custard filling in the center.
  4. Pinch and seal edges, shaping into smooth buns.

4. Steam the Buns

  1. Place buns on parchment squares in a steamer basket.
  2. Let rise for 15 minutes.
  3. Steam over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes.

5. Serve

Enjoy warm, soft custard buns fresh from the steamer!

Tips for Perfect Custard Buns

  • Chill custard before filling — it’s easier to handle.
  • Don’t overfill buns to prevent leakage.
  • Use parchment paper squares to stop buns from sticking.
  • For lava-style buns (Liu Sha Bao), add salted egg yolk powder to the custard.

Variations

  • Baked Custard Buns: Brush with egg wash and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
  • Coconut Custard Buns: Add shredded coconut to the custard filling.
  • Matcha Custard Buns: Mix matcha powder into custard for a Japanese twist.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with Hong Kong Milk Tea for a true dim sum experience.
  • Pair with other dim sum favorites like Egg Tarts or Steamed BBQ Pork Buns.
  • Enjoy as a sweet snack or dessert after dinner.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a steamer or microwave with a damp paper towel.
  • Freeze unsteamed buns for up to 2 months; steam straight from frozen.

FAQs about Custard Buns

1. What’s the difference between Nai Wong Bao and Liu Sha Bao?
Nai Wong Bao has thick custard filling, while Liu Sha Bao has a runny, lava-like filling.

2. Can I bake instead of steam?
Yes, baked custard buns are golden and slightly crisp, while steamed ones stay fluffy.

3. Can I make the dough with a stand mixer?
Yes, use a dough hook to knead for 6–7 minutes.

4. Can I use store-bought custard?
Yes, but homemade custard gives the best flavor and texture.

5. How do I prevent buns from collapsing after steaming?
Make sure your yeast is active and avoid opening the steamer lid too early.

You May Also Like

  • [Hong Kong Egg Tarts]
  • [Steamed BBQ Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)]
  • [Pineapple Buns (Bolo Bao)]
  • [Hong Kong Style French Toast]
  • [Mango Pudding]

👉 These homemade Custard Buns are soft, fluffy, and filled with creamy custard — just like dim sum! Try this recipe for a perfect sweet treat.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

spicy salmon sushi bites.

                    🍣 Crispy Rice Sushi Bites Recipe – Viral Sushi Appetizer You’ll Crave! 📌 Why You’ll Love These Crispy Sushi Bites These crispy rice sushi bites are the perfect blend of textures: golden fried sushi rice topped with creamy, spicy tuna or fresh avocado. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving sushi night at home, this viral appetizer is fun, fancy, and surprisingly easy! 📝 Ingredients (Makes 12–15 bites) For the crispy rice: 2 cups cooked sushi rice (short-grain, cooled) 1 tbsp rice vinegar 1 tsp sugar Pinch of salt Neutral oil (for frying) For the spicy tuna topping: 150g sashimi-grade tuna, finely chopped 2 tbsp mayo 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste) 1 tsp soy sauce ½ tsp sesame oil Optional toppings: Thin avocado slices Jalapeño rounds Black sesame seeds Chopped green onions Soy sauce for dipping 🍳 Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice Mix the cooled rice with rice vinega...
Post a Comment
Read more

albondigas recipe

  🧆 Spanish Meatballs Recipe (Albóndigas) | Savory Tapas Classic Craving juicy, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce? These Spanish Albóndigas are a classic tapas dish, packed with bold spices, fresh herbs, and rustic charm. Served with crusty bread or rice, they make the perfect party bite, appetizer, or cozy family dinner. 📝 Ingredients For the Meatballs: 500g ground beef (or half beef, half pork) 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1 egg 2 tbsp chopped parsley 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp cumin Salt and pepper to taste Olive oil for frying For the Tomato Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp sugar (to balance acidity) Salt and pepper to taste Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine or water 🍳 Instructions Step 1: Make the Meatballs In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, ...
Post a Comment
Read more

raspberry almond cake recipe

  🍰 Raspberry Almond Tea Cake – Elegant, Moist & Perfect for Any Occasion Looking for a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? This Raspberry Almond Tea Cake is a soft, buttery delight with a subtle almond flavor, studded with juicy raspberries and topped with sliced almonds. It’s the perfect treat for afternoon tea, brunch gatherings, or a light dessert. Whether you're celebrating a special moment or just enjoying a quiet cup of tea, this simple yet elegant cake brings bakery-quality flavor to your home kitchen. ✅ Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Almond Cake 🍓 Naturally sweet and fruity 🌰 Warm almond aroma and flavor 🧁 Light, fluffy, and moist texture ☕ Pairs beautifully with tea or coffee 🕒 Bakes in under 40 minutes with simple  🍓 Ingredients You’ll Need 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1/2 tsp almond extract 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (50g) almond fl...
Post a Comment
Read more