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Soft, fluffy, and filled with gooey chocolate, these Chocolate Steamed Buns are a delightful dessert twist on traditional Chinese bao. Unlike baked pastries, these buns are made using steam, which gives them a moist, airy texture that melts in your mouth. Infused with cocoa powder and filled with a chunk of rich chocolate, this treat combines Asian culinary tradition with classic chocolate indulgence. Whether you’re new to steamed buns or already a fan, this version is an easy and rewarding recipe that delivers pure comfort and sweetness in every bite. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone who prefers not to use an oven or is looking for a unique dessert to serve warm and fresh.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

250 g all-purpose flour
15 g unsweetened cocoa powder
5 g baking powder
5 g instant yeast
35 g sugar
1/4 tsp salt
150 ml warm milk
15 ml neutral oil
12 semi-sweet chocolate cubes or chunks

Directions

Mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl.
Slowly pour in warm milk while mixing until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Add oil and knead again until fully incorporated.
Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and flatten each one.
Place a piece of chocolate in the center of each dough piece and seal it to form a bun.
Place each bun on parchment paper and let them rest for 15 minutes.
Steam over boiling water for 10–12 minutes.
Remove from heat and let sit with lid ajar for 2 minutes to avoid shrinkage.
Serve warm for a gooey chocolate center.

Nutrients

Calories: ~180 per bun
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Protein: ~4g
Fat: ~5g
Saturated Fat: ~2g
Sugar: ~7g
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~80mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What truly makes these Chocolate Steamed Buns unique is their balance of tradition and innovation. Drawing inspiration from Chinese baozi, a staple in many Asian cuisines, this version infuses a Western twist with the addition of cocoa and a chocolate center. The result is a dessert that’s not only eye-catching with its deep brown hue but also irresistibly rich in flavor. Unlike typical baked chocolate treats, the steaming method keeps the buns soft and ultra-moist. There’s no need to worry about overbaking or dry textures here. This dessert is perfect for those who appreciate nuanced flavors—where a subtle bitterness from the cocoa plays perfectly against the sweet molten filling. Additionally, the recipe doesn’t rely on complicated tools or techniques, making it approachable even for beginners. It’s also versatile enough for different occasions: from casual snacking to impressive dessert presentations. For people with limited kitchen appliances or those avoiding oven use in hot weather, this recipe becomes even more appealing. All of these elements combine to make it a standout dessert that impresses in both taste and texture.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the synergy between a few core ingredients. Cocoa powder, the backbone of the bun’s chocolate flavor, is more than just tasty—it contains antioxidants and offers a rich, earthy aroma. Choosing unsweetened cocoa allows you to control the sweetness, giving the buns a deeper and more authentic chocolate essence. The use of instant yeast accelerates the rising process, making the dough light and fluffy without waiting all day. All-purpose flour gives structure to the dough, but it’s soft enough to allow for a tender final product. Warm milk, as the liquid base, provides both moisture and fat content, improving the texture and softness of the buns. Sugar not only adds sweetness but also feeds the yeast and contributes to browning and softness. Neutral oil is incorporated for pliability and helps maintain that moist, springy bite after steaming. The heart of each bun—the chocolate chunk—is the real showstopper. When steamed, it softens into a luscious, melty center. Choosing semi-sweet chocolate creates a nice contrast, avoiding the overpowering sweetness that can sometimes make desserts feel too heavy. Even salt, though minimal, plays an important role in elevating all the other flavors. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend of flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every bite.

Cooking Tips

If this is your first time working with steamed buns or making any sort of yeast dough, don’t worry—the process is straightforward with a few tips. Always start by ensuring your milk is warm, not hot. Around 100–110°F (38–43°C) is ideal. If it’s too hot, you’ll kill the yeast; too cold, and the dough won’t rise properly. When kneading, aim for a smooth and elastic dough. This typically takes about 10 minutes of consistent kneading. Don’t be tempted to add too much flour during this step—slightly sticky dough is okay. Oil is added later in the kneading process, which helps loosen the dough and adds to its tenderness after cooking. When it’s time to form the buns, flatten the dough pieces evenly and pinch them tightly after inserting the chocolate to prevent leaking during steaming. Allowing the buns to rest before steaming helps them relax and puff up slightly, resulting in a smoother finish. When steaming, don’t overcrowd the steamer—leave room for expansion. Use parchment paper squares under each bun to prevent sticking. One of the most important steps comes at the end: after turning off the heat, let the buns rest in the steamer with the lid slightly open. This gradual cooling prevents sudden temperature changes that could cause the buns to collapse or wrinkle. These small techniques make a noticeable difference in the final texture and appearance of your buns.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate Steamed Buns are best enjoyed fresh and warm, when the centers are still gooey and the outer dough is soft and fluffy. They make an excellent standalone dessert but can also be dressed up for special occasions. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives them an elegant touch, while a drizzle of chocolate sauce can heighten the richness. For added texture and a touch of saltiness, consider sprinkling some crushed toasted nuts over the top before serving. These buns also pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea—green tea, jasmine tea, or even chai complement the chocolate flavor with subtle contrasts. For a modern twist, serve them with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a hot-and-cold dessert experience. If you’re hosting a party or looking to create a dessert platter, pair the buns with fresh berries or sliced bananas. You can even experiment with fillings by adding a small piece of marshmallow or fruit compote along with the chocolate for a playful variation. For kids, these buns are a fun and interactive treat—they’ll love the surprise center and soft texture. Whether you’re serving them as a casual after-dinner sweet or at a festive gathering, these buns offer versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Conclusion

Chocolate Steamed Buns deliver an unforgettable dessert experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Their unique preparation method—steaming rather than baking—sets them apart from typical chocolate treats, offering a moist and airy bite that doesn’t rely on heavy fats or elaborate ingredients. From the subtle bitterness of cocoa in the dough to the melty richness of the chocolate center, every part of this bun is crafted to satisfy. The ingredients are simple, but when combined thoughtfully, they produce a sophisticated and nostalgic flavor that appeals across cultures. The hands-on preparation offers a relaxing rhythm and gives home cooks a chance to connect with traditional methods while enjoying the creativity of fusion cuisine. These buns are not just about taste—they’re about experience: the rising steam, the warmth of freshly cooked dough, and the surprise of soft chocolate in the middle. For anyone looking to expand their dessert repertoire or explore new textures and flavors, this recipe is a must-try. Serve it warm, share it with loved ones, and enjoy a delightful treat that bridges cultures and culinary styles with ease.

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