Decadent Chocolate-Filled Steamed Buns Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate steamed buns are a delightful treat combining soft, fluffy dough with a rich, melted chocolate center. These buns are perfect for a cozy snack or a sweet addition to your breakfast table.

Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1 cup chocolate filling (such as chocolate chips or chopped chocolate)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour and yeast. Gradually add warm milk and knead into a smooth, elastic dough. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Step 2: Divide the dough into equal portions. Flatten each piece, place chocolate filling in the center, and seal the dough around it to form a bun.
- Step 3: Place the buns in a steamer lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes until the buns are fluffy and cooked through.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
- Try using different fillings like Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit preserves.
- Make sure the water is boiling before you start steaming to ensure the buns cook evenly.
Storage
Store leftover steamed buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, steam them again for 5-7 minutes or microwave briefly covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dry yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, but adjust the quantity as dry yeast is more concentrated. Generally, use about one-third of the amount called for active dry yeast.
What if I don’t have a steamer?
You can improvise by placing a heatproof plate on a metal rack inside a large pot with a lid and boiling water underneath. Make sure the buns don’t touch the water.
PrintDecadent Chocolate-Filled Steamed Buns Recipe
Delightfully soft and fluffy chocolate steamed buns featuring a tender yeast dough filled with rich, melted chocolate. These buns are a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack with a warm, comforting texture and a luscious chocolate center.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 buns 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Filling
- 1/2 cup chopped or small pieces of dark or milk chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with the sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. Then add the flour, salt, and vegetable oil, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Proof: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Flatten each piece into a disc and place a small amount of chocolate filling in the center. Carefully pinch the edges together to seal the chocolate inside and shape into a smooth bun.
- Second Proof: Place the filled buns on parchment paper squares to prevent sticking and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, covered with a towel.
- Steam the Buns: Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil. Place the buns on a steamer rack or basket, making sure they have enough space to expand. Steam the buns over medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes until they puff up and become fluffy.
- Serve: Carefully remove the buns from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving warm to enjoy the melted chocolate center.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
- You can substitute chocolate filling with Nutella or chocolate chips for variation.
- Do not lift the steamer lid during steaming to prevent buns from collapsing.
- Use parchment paper or cabbage leaves under the buns to avoid sticking to the steamer.
- These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently by steaming again for a few minutes.
Keywords: chocolate steamed buns, chocolate bao, steamed dessert buns, soft chocolate buns, fluffy steamed buns

