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The first time I took a bite of a Chinese Pineapple Bun filled with tender Char Siu Pork, I felt like I was transported to a bustling street market in Hong Kong. The sweet, crusty topping contrasted beautifully with the savory, juicy filling, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. Whenever I crave something comforting yet extraordinary, these buns come to mind, and they’re surprisingly simple to make at home.

After teaming up with my oven, some pantry staples, and a touch of patience, I learned that crafting these delightful treats is a labor of love well worth the effort. Perfect for impressing guests or just indulging on a lazy Sunday afternoon, these buns encapsulate the essence of homemade goodness. Ready to create a dish that will leave everyone raving? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe for Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork and bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen!

Why are Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork irresistible?

Deliciously Unique: These buns feature a sweet, crunchy topping that beautifully balances the savory filling—a delightful twist on traditional flavors.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create restaurant-quality buns right from your kitchen.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for brunch, snacks, or party appetizers, they can impress any crowd with their vibrant taste.
Comfort Food: Each bite feels like a warm hug, combining nostalgia with the comforts of homemade food.
Freeze and Save: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a quick meal option anytime you crave something special.
Take a step into culinary tradition with these scrumptious buns!

Chinese Pineapple Buns Ingredients

These delightful Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork are made with simple yet essential ingredients that come together for a perfect treat!

For the Dough
• Warm milk – aids yeast activation for fluffy texture.
• Granulated sugar – provides nourishment for yeast and sweetness.
• Dry active yeast – essential for dough rising.
• Bread flour – offers structure and chewiness to the buns.
• Heavy cream – adds richness to the dough.
• Melted butter – contributes to a tender and flavorful dough.
• Salt – enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Egg yolk – adds color and richness to the dough.

For the Filling
• Oil – used for sautéing shallots to release their flavor.
• Shallots – provides a sweet, mild onion flavor.
• Chicken stock – adds depth and moisture to the filling.
• Soy sauce – gives it an umami boost.
• Hoisin sauce – adds sweetness and complexity.
• Oyster sauce – enhances savory notes in the filling.
• Sugar – balances out the savory flavors.
• Five spice powder – infuses a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Cornstarch – thickens the sauce for the filling.
• Water – helps dissolve cornstarch for a smooth sauce.
• Char siu pork – the star ingredient, bringing delightful flavor and texture.

For the Topping
• Melted and cooled butter – adds richness to the topping.
• Granulated sugar – creates a sweet, crunchy crust.
• Egg yolk – used for glazing, giving a beautiful golden color.
• Milk – adds moisture to the topping mixture.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the sweetness in the topping.
• All-purpose flour – forms the base of the topping.
• Dry milk powder – enriches the flavor.
• Baking powder – helps the topping rise slightly.
• Baking soda – promotes browning and texture.
• Salt – balances and enhances flavors.
• Egg yolk with milk – used for brushing the tops before baking.

Gather these ingredients, and let’s create something magical that will surely impress everyone!

How to Make Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork

Combine Ingredients: Start by mixing the warm milk, active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes foamy. This ensures your yeast is active!
Mix Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, gently combine the yeast mixture with bread flour, heavy cream, melted butter, salt, and the egg yolk. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 6-7 minutes until smooth.
Proof the Dough: Transfer your smooth dough into a clean bowl, cover it, and let it proof in a warm area for 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Sauté Shallots: While the dough proofs, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a medium sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for about 2 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant.
Prepare Filling: Add the chicken stock, soy sauce, hoisin, oyster sauce, sugar, and five-spice powder to the sautéed shallots. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2 minutes.
Thicken Sauce: Dissolve cornstarch in ¼ cup of water, and add it to the sauce. Let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and fold in the char siu pork. Allow this filling to cool completely.
Prepare Topping: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, dry milk powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth. Then, add milk, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Topping Ingredients: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Wrap the topping dough in plastic wrap and roll it into a log. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Shape Buns: After the dough has proofed, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a 5-inch circle, place ¼ cup of char siu filling in the center, and gather the edges together to enclose the filling. Flatten into discs and place on a lined baking sheet.
Proof Buns Again: Cover the buns with a towel and let them proof in a warm area for about 45 minutes until they puff up.
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F while the buns are proofing. This ensures they’re baking in the right environment.
Add Topping: Roll the chilled topping into 12 circles to place on top of each bun. Brush with the egg yolk and milk mixture, then press the topping down gently to adhere.
Score & Bake: If desired, score the topping in a crisscross pattern. Brush with more egg yolk mixture, and bake in your preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown, rotating the baking sheets halfway through for even baking.
Cool & Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the buns warm and enjoy the delightfully contrasting flavors!

Optional: Drizzle with hoisin sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork

Room Temperature: Store cooled buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure they are completely cooled to prevent moisture buildup.

Fridge: For longer storage, keep the Chinese Pineapple Buns in the fridge for up to 5 days in a sealed container. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a few minutes before serving.

Freezer: Freeze the buns individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy your buns warm again, use a steamer or microwave for a soft texture, or bake briefly in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Chinese Pineapple Buns Variations

Customize your delightful buns with these creative twists that will elevate your baking experience and delight your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously soft texture. Just ensure your ratios are correct for optimal rise.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the filling for a surprising kick. This spicy enhancement balances perfectly with the sweetness.
Vegetarian Option: Replace char siu pork with finely diced mushrooms and bell peppers sautéed in soy sauce for a hearty, meatless variation. The umami flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Pineapple Infusion: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the filling mix to enhance the fruitiness of the buns. This adds a delicious sweetness that echoes the name aptly.
Sweet Almond Paste: Substitute some filling with sweetened almond paste for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory components. Your family will adore this unexpected combination.
Herb Boost: Fold in finely chopped green onions or fresh cilantro to the filling before cooking for a fresh herbal note. It not only adds flavor but also a beautiful color contrast.
Nutty Crunch: Include chopped, toasted nuts like cashews or peanuts in the char siu mixture for added texture and flavor. This unexpected crunch turns each bite into an adventure.
Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add a slice of cheese, such as cheddar or cream cheese, in the middle of the filling for a creamy indulgence that surprises with every bite.

Let your creativity flow and watch these buns transform into something uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply let the dough proof and refrigerate after kneading for maximum freshness. The filling can be made and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure both are well-covered to maintain quality and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to assemble, proceed to shape the buns from the cold dough, let them proof for 45 minutes, and finish by baking them. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality buns ready in no time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement these savory-sweet buns.

Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crunchy and refreshing salad drizzled with sesame oil; it balances the richness of the buns beautifully.
Spicy Garlic Edamame: These protein-packed pods bring a delightful kick, making a perfect contrast to the sweet flavors of the buns.
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Light and vibrant, this sauce adds a zingy twist when your buns are dipped, enhancing their flavors immensely.
Steamed Bok Choy: Tender and slightly crisp, it adds a fresh note that pairs well with the rich char siu filling.
Coconut Sticky Rice: Creamy and subtly sweet, it’s an indulgent side that complements the textures in your buns beautifully.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and calming, this drink is a delightful way to cleanse your palate between the savory bites.
Mango Sticky Rice Dessert: For a lovely ending to the meal, this sweet dessert ties in tropical flavors that resonate with the buns’ sweetness.
Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who love heat, a drizzle of chili oil on the buns adds a fragrant spice that will excite your taste buds.

With these scrumptious pairings, your meal will feel complete and truly memorable!

Expert Tips for Chinese Pineapple Buns

Active Yeast Check: Always ensure your yeast is fresh by testing it in warm milk with sugar before mixing. If it doesn’t foam, it’s best to start over to avoid dense buns.
Perfect Dough: Knead your dough thoroughly for that ideal texture—smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, sprinkle in a little more bread flour during mixing.
Flavor Boost: For a richer filling, let your char siu mixture cool completely before using it. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy and ensures robust flavors in your Chinese Pineapple Buns.
Proofing Time: Provide a warm environment for proofing. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the dough in an oven with the light on. This helps develop those lovely fluffiness!
Topping Technique: When adding the topping, don’t press too hard—just enough to secure it. This maintains the beautiful, airy quality of your buns while adding that sweet crunch.
Freezing Tip: After baking, these buns freeze beautifully! Place them in an airtight container for up to a month for a quick and delicious meal whenever you crave your homemade Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork.

Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best char siu pork for my buns?
Absolutely! When choosing char siu pork, look for cuts that have a good balance of fat and meat, as this will keep your filling juicy and flavorful. Ideally, the meat should be marinated properly, with a beautiful glaze that enhances the overall taste. Freshness is key, so if you’re buying it from a butcher or restaurant, don’t hesitate to ask when it was made!

How should I store leftover Chinese Pineapple Buns?
To keep your delicious buns fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It’s essential that they cool completely beforehand to avoid moisture buildup. If you want to keep them longer, transfer them to the refrigerator where they can be stored for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them gently before enjoying!

Can I freeze these buns for later?
Very! These Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork freeze excellently. Once they’ve cooled, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat in a steamer or microwave for that fresh-from-the-oven taste!

What if my dough doesn’t rise as expected?
Don’t fret! If your dough fails to rise, it might be due to the yeast being inactive or the environment being too cool. First, check the freshness of your yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar; it should foam within 5-10 minutes. If it doesn’t, it’s best to start anew. For the next batch, ensure a warm proofing area, like an oven with the light on.

Are these buns safe for everyone? What about allergies?
Absolutely! However, when preparing these Chinese Pineapple Buns with Char Siu Pork, be cautious of any specific allergies. The recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (in flour) and dairy (in cream and butter). Always read ingredient labels carefully, especially for sauces like soy sauce and oyster sauce, as they may contain gluten or shellfish allergens. If making for a larger group, consider alternatives that cater to dietary restrictions!

How can I achieve the perfect texture for my topping?
For a delightful topping, ensure your butter is melted but cooled before mixing with sugar. This prevents it from becoming too greasy when combined with the dry ingredients. When you roll out the topping, aim for an even thickness for consistent baking. If you want that beautiful crunch, remember to brush with the egg yolk-milk mixture before scoring—it gives the perfect golden-brown finish!