Frequently Asked Questions
What are Coconut-Glazed Samoan Buns?
They are soft and fluffy tropical treats featuring warm, airy dough topped with a rich, sweet coconut sauce.
What is the traditional way to serve Samoan Buns?
These buns are traditionally served upside-down to ensure the decadent sauce sits on top for a perfect finish.
What inspired this recipe?
This folkloric recipe draws inspiration from Seta's Panipopos Kitchen.
How many buns does this recipe make?
The recipe makes 12 equal portions or buns.
What type of yeast is required?
You need 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast.
How long should the yeast sit in water?
Let the yeast sit undisturbed in warm water for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
What kind of flour is best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour is recommended for these buns.
How much coconut milk is needed in total?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of coconut milk in the dough and an additional 3/4 cup for the glaze.
How long should I knead the dough?
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 10 to 20 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
How long is the initial rising period?
The dough should rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Can I let the dough rise a second time?
Yes, you can optionally punch down the dough and let it rise again for an additional 30 minutes after the first hour.
What pan size should I use for baking?
An ungreased 9 by 13 baking pan is recommended for these buns.
How long is the second rise after shaping the buns?
After shaping the buns into balls, let them rise for 30 to 45 minutes until almost doubled in size.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
How do I prepare the coconut sauce?
Mix 3/4 cup of coconut milk and 1/2 cup of sugar together in a small bowl until well incorporated.
When should the coconut sauce be added?
Pour the coconut sauce evenly over the top of the buns after their second rise, just before baking.
How long do the buns need to bake?
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the buns are golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
What is the calorie count for these buns?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How much fat is in one bun?
Each bun contains about 3.5g of fat.
What is the protein content?
There are approximately 2.67g of protein per bun.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
One bun contains about 32.5g of carbohydrates.
Why should the buns cool for 30 minutes?
Cooling helps the buns set and allows the sauce to thicken for a better serving experience.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is sticky when mixing, gradually add a little more flour as necessary.
What type of oil is used in the dough?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
Should the water for the yeast be hot?
The water should be warm but not hot to ensure the yeast is activated without being killed.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include samoan, buns, coconut, dessert, tropical, bread, easy recipe, sweet, and fluffy.
Is the baking pan supposed to be greased?
No, the recipe specifies using an ungreased 9 by 13 baking pan.
What is the preparation for the egg?
The egg should be lightly beaten before being added to the yeast mixture.
Can I use fresh coconut milk?
Yes, you can use either canned or fresh coconut milk.
How do I know when the buns are finished baking?
The buns are done when they are golden brown and the sauce is bubbling and caramelizing around the edges.