Light and fluffy hotdog buns

To make light and fluffy hotdog buns, you can follow this basic recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment, combine the flour and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture and whisk until well combined.
4. Make Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes. If kneading by hand, knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Buns: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions (usually 8-10 portions for hotdog buns). Shape each portion into a smooth ball and then roll it into an elongated shape, suitable for a hotdog bun.
7. Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them. Cover them again with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until they double in size.
8. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake: Once the buns have doubled in size, optionally brush the tops with egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Cool: Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving with your favorite hotdogs or sausages.