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Close up image of whole grain sourdough hamburger buns showing the nice rise and air pockets for this whole grain dough.

Whole Wheat Sourdough Hamburger Buns


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  • Author: Marilyn Golden

Description

Hearty whole wheat sourdough hamburger buns with soft crumb and strong rise.


Ingredients

Scale

    • 3/4 cup (170g) active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
    • 3/4 cup (170g) warm water
    • 1 cup (120g) unbleached all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup (120g) white whole wheat flour
    • 2 tablespoons (14g) whole milk powder
    • 1½ teaspoons (9g) table salt
    • 2 tablespoons (32g) honey
    • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, softened


Instructions

    1. Mix the Dough:
      In a large bowl (or stand mixer), combine sourdough starter, water, and instant yeast (if using). Add flours, milk powder, salt, sugar, and softened butter. Mix until a rough dough forms
    2. Knead:
      Knead the dough by hand (10 minutes) or with a dough hook (6–8 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
    3. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
      Cover the dough and let it rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until nearly doubled. For a stronger sourdough flavor, refrigerate overnight.
    4. Shape the Buns:
      Divide the dough into 6–8 equal portions. Shape each into a tight ball and gently flatten. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each bun.
    5. Final Proof:
      Cover and let rise for 1.5–2 hours, until puffy and well-risen.
    6. Prepare & Bake:
      Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the buns with the egg yolk wash and sprinkle with seeds or toppings if desired.
      Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190–200°F (88–93°C).
    7. Cool & Enjoy:
      Let buns cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • White Whole Wheat Flour adds whole grain nutrition without making the buns too dense
  • For a stronger sourdough tang, opt for a longer cold ferment (overnight in the fridge).
  • Milk powder helps create a softer crumb and enhances browning.