Everyone's Favorite Buns Recipe

How to Make Everyone's Favorite Buns

1. In a 2-cup glass measuring cup, combine 1 cup milk and 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter.
2. Microwave on high for 1 1/2 minutes, or until butter is melted.
3. Add enough warm water to reach the 2-cup mark.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon salt.
5. Add the warm milk mixture to the wet ingredients and whisk well to combine.
6. Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast over the wet ingredients.
7. Let stand for 2 minutes to allow the yeast to bloom.
8. Add 3 cups all-purpose flour to the bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed, scraping down the bowl as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 3-5 minutes).
9. Gradually add 2 cups more all-purpose flour, mixing with the dough hook or by hand until the dough is smooth.
10. Add enough remaining flour (about 1/2 - 1 cup) to make the dough slightly sticky but easy to handle.
11. Place the dough in a lightly greased large bowl, turning to coat.
12. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter.
13. Brush the top of the dough with half of the melted butter.
14. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
15. Gently punch down the dough.
16. Divide the dough in half.
17. On a lightly floured surface, shape each half into 12 buns.
18. Place the buns on two greased jelly-roll pans.
19. Brush the buns with the remaining melted butter.
20. Cover the pans loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
21. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
22. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until golden brown.
23. Remove the buns from the pans immediately and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
24. Brush with additional melted butter, if desired.