CopyCat Hamburger Buns

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Place the water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in the bread machine pan. Let stand for a couple of minutes to allow the yeast to dissolve and begin to activate; the water should be lukewarm (about 110°F) and you may see slight bubbling.

2. Step 2.

   Add the remaining ingredients to the bread machine pan in the order given by your recipe. Secure the pan in the machine, select the 'dough' mode, and start the cycle. The machine will mix, knead, and let the dough rise.

3. Step 3.

   When the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the machine and place it on a lightly floured surface. Gently deflate the dough by pressing down on it with your hands to release excess air.

4. Step 4.

   Divide the dough into 8 to 10 equal portions. Cover the portions with a clean tea towel and let them rest for 5 minutes; this relaxes the gluten and makes shaping easier.

5. Step 5.

   While the dough portions rest, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. After the rest, shape each portion into a smooth ball by cupping your hand over it and rolling it on the work surface. Place the balls, evenly spaced, on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Step 6.

   Insert the entire baking sheet into a large plastic bag (like a clean garbage bag). Allow the rolls to rise until quite puffy, 20 to 30 minutes. The dough should spring back slowly when gently pressed.

7. Step 7.

   Remove the baking sheet from the plastic bag. Flatten each roll gently with the palm of your hand. If desired, brush the tops with milk and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

8. Step 8.

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven preheats, let the flattened rolls sit at room temperature to continue rising slightly.

9. Step 9.

   Bake the rolls until nicely browned, 15 to 20 minutes. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool. Freeze any leftovers.