Chinese Steamed Custard Buns (Nai Wong Bao) – Step By Step

Custard buns are beloved by both children and adults for their rich, creamy custard filling and soft, fluffy texture.

Learning how to make these buns at home not only satisfies the taste buds of your family but also offers the fun of preparing homemade treats.

These custard buns can even be shaped into cute little piggy buns, making them a fun activity to enjoy with your kids. They’ll love the adorable shapes, and it’s sure to be a hit with them.Piggy Buns 1

Of course, you can swap the custard filling for any other filling you prefer, like the ones I’ve shared before:

Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making these delicious custard buns!Custard Buns 3

Ingredients

Custard Filling:

  • 4 egg yolks (for a richer, golden color and a more intense flavor)
  • 50g white sugar (to adjust the sweetness of the filling, feel free to modify to your taste)
  • 150g whole milk (adds moisture, making the filling smooth)
  • 30g all-purpose flour (to help the filling thicken and hold together)
  • 30g cornstarch (to help the custard thicken quickly while cooking, giving it a silky texture)
  • 30g vegetable oil (such as corn or sunflower oil, for a smooth texture)
  • 1 tbsp milk powder (optional, for an extra boost of milk flavor)

Dough:

  • 300g all-purpose flour (regular flour works fine)
  • 3g active dry yeast (to help the dough rise and become fluffy)
  • 180g warm water (adjust according to the flour’s absorbency, for a smooth dough)

Instructions

Preparing the Custard Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine the egg yolks, sugar, milk, flour, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and optional milk powder.In a large bowl combine the egg yolks sugar milk flour cornstarch vegetable oil and optional milk powder
  2. Use a whisk or chopsticks to stir the mixture until smooth and well blended. For an even finer texture, you can sift the mixture to remove any lumps.sift the mixture
  3. Pour the mixture into a non-stick pan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. As the mixture heats up, it will begin to thicken.Pour the mixture into a non stick pan and cook over low heat stirring constantly to prevent sticking
  4. Continue stirring until the custard is thick enough to hold its shape and doesn’t stick to the pan. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool. After it cools, form the custard into small balls to make it easier to fill the buns later.form the custard into small balls

Preparing the Dough

  1. In a clean bowl, mix together the flour and yeast.
  2. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with chopsticks or a spatula to form clumps of dough.Gradually add the warm water
  3. Once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to knead it until smooth and elastic. Continue kneading for about 10-15 minutes, until the dough is smooth and no longer sticks to your hands.

Shaping and Steaming the Buns

  1. Roll the dough into a long log and cut it into small pieces. The size of the pieces can be adjusted according to preference, but aim for pieces about the size of dumpling wrappers.Roll the dough into a long log and cut it into small pieces
  2. Use a rolling pin to roll each piece into a thin, round wrapper. Place a ball of custard filling in the center of each wrapper.Place a ball of custard filling in the center of each wrapper
  3. Fold the edges of the wrapper over the filling, pinching the dough to seal it completely, just like you would with dumplings or buns.
  4. Place the filled buns on a steaming tray, leaving space between each one to prevent them from sticking together during steaming.Place the filled buns on a steaming tray
  5. Cover the buns with a lid and let them proof for 1-2 hours until they double in size. To test if they are properly proofed, gently press on the surface of a bun—if the indentation slowly bounces back, they’re ready.
  6. Once proofed, steam the buns over high heat for about 15 minutes. Keep the lid on during steaming to prevent steam from escaping and ensure even cooking. After steaming, let the buns sit for an additional 3-5 minutes to make them extra soft and fluffy.Custard Buns 1

Features of Custard Buns

  • Rich, Creamy Flavor:The combination of egg yolks, milk, and optional milk powder in the custard filling, along with the yeasty aroma from the dough, creates a rich, indulgent flavor that is irresistible.
  • Fluffy and Soft:The dough rises perfectly due to the yeast, resulting in a light, airy texture that complements the smooth, sweet custard filling. These buns make for a great breakfast, snack, or even a side dish for meals.
  • Sweet and Tasty:The sugar in the custard filling and the dough provides just the right amount of sweetness. It’s not overpowering, making these buns a favorite among kids and adults alike.Custard Buns 2

Storage Tips

Room Temperature:
If you’re not eating the buns right away, you can store them at room temperature, but avoid direct sunlight or areas with airflow to prevent the buns from drying out. They are best consumed the same day to maintain their freshness.

Refrigeration:
To extend their shelf life, store the buns in the fridge. Let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or bag. They can be stored at 3-5°C for up to 1-2 days. Reheat them in a steamer or microwave to restore their fluffy texture before eating.

Freezing:
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. After cooling, individually wrap each bun in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep for 3-6 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature, then reheat in a steamer or microwave. Adjust the heating time if they were frozen to ensure they are thoroughly warmed through.Custard Buns 4

Give these delicious custard buns a try, and with the steps above, you’ll easily be able to make these sweet, fragrant, and soft buns at home. You can even store them properly for later, ensuring you can enjoy your homemade treats whenever you like!

Custard Buns 4

Delicious Custard Buns: Easy-to-Make Sweet Temptations

Custard buns are beloved by both children and adults for their rich, creamy custard filling and soft, fluffy texture.
Learning how to make these buns at home not only satisfies the taste buds of your family but also offers the fun of preparing homemade treats.
4 from 2 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Chinese
Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 3
Calories: 714kcal

Ingredients

Custard Filling:

  • 4 egg yolks for a richer, golden color and a more intense flavor
  • 50 g white sugar to adjust the sweetness of the filling, feel free to modify to your taste
  • 150 g whole milk adds moisture, making the filling smooth
  • 30 g all-purpose flour to help the filling thicken and hold together
  • 30 g cornstarch to help the custard thicken quickly while cooking, giving it a silky texture
  • 30 g vegetable oil such as corn or sunflower oil, for a smooth texture
  • 1 tbsp milk powder optional, for an extra boost of milk flavor

Dough:

  • 300 g all-purpose flour regular flour works fine
  • 3 g active dry yeast to help the dough rise and become fluffy
  • 180 g warm water adjust according to the flour’s absorbency, for a smooth dough

Instructions

Preparing the Custard Filling

  • In a large bowl, combine the egg yolks, sugar, milk, flour, cornstarch, vegetable oil, and optional milk powder.
  • Use a whisk or chopsticks to stir the mixture until smooth and well blended. For an even finer texture, you can sift the mixture to remove any lumps.
  • Pour the mixture into a non-stick pan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. As the mixture heats up, it will begin to thicken.
  • Continue stirring until the custard is thick enough to hold its shape and doesn’t stick to the pan. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool. After it cools, form the custard into small balls to make it easier to fill the buns later.

Preparing the Dough

  • In a clean bowl, mix together the flour and yeast.
  • Gradually add the warm water, stirring with chopsticks or a spatula to form clumps of dough.
  • Once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to knead it until smooth and elastic. Continue kneading for about 10-15 minutes, until the dough is smooth and no longer sticks to your hands.

Shaping and Steaming the Buns

  • Roll the dough into a long log and cut it into small pieces. The size of the pieces can be adjusted according to preference, but aim for pieces about the size of dumpling wrappers.
  • Use a rolling pin to roll each piece into a thin, round wrapper. Place a ball of custard filling in the center of each wrapper.
  • Fold the edges of the wrapper over the filling, pinching the dough to seal it completely, just like you would with dumplings or buns.
  • Place the filled buns on a steaming tray, leaving space between each one to prevent them from sticking together during steaming.
  • Cover the buns with a lid and let them proof for 1-2 hours until they double in size. To test if they are properly proofed, gently press on the surface of a bun—if the indentation slowly bounces back, they’re ready.
  • Once proofed, steam the buns over high heat for about 15 minutes. Keep the lid on during steaming to prevent steam from escaping and ensure even cooking. After steaming, let the buns sit for an additional 3-5 minutes to make them extra soft and fluffy.
Tried this recipe? Tag me on Instagram!Do you make this recipe? I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram at @yumofchina.

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Nutrition

Calories: 714kcal | Carbohydrates: 114g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 268mg | Sodium: 47mg | Potassium: 262mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 450IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 134mg | Iron: 6mg

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