Steam over low, steady heat and crack the lid slowly at the end — a sudden blast of cool air collapses the delicate set crumb, giving you a wrinkled, deflated bun instead of a smooth dome.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min plus 1.5 hr rise
Cook12 min
Makes10 buns
CuisineChinese
Cost$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · gluten
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
Can you make Steamed Bao Buns in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Steamed Bao Buns? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Steamed Bao Buns ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Steamed Bao Buns gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
Is Steamed Bao Buns vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy.
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