Savory Mushroom Buns

The smell of warm bread and mushrooms makes me feel so cozy. The soft bun with the savory filling is just so tasty. Every bite feels like comfort in my hands.
I baked these buns one evening for dinner. The mushrooms were juicy, and the flavor was rich and earthy. My family loved them, and we couldn’t stop eating.
That’s why I want to share this recipe with you. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for any meal. Let’s make these Savory Mushroom Buns together.

Why You’ll Love These Savory Mushroom Buns
- Vibrant and Flavorful Filling: The shiitake mushrooms bring an earthy richness that is perfectly balanced with a savory soy and oyster sauce mixture.
- Tender, Fluffy Dough: The soft, airy dough pairs perfectly with the bold, aromatic mushroom filling, making each bite an experience.
- Vegan-Friendly: With no dairy or meat involved, these buns are a great plant-based option.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make these buns ahead of time, and they reheat wonderfully. Great for lunches or dinner.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the filling, making this recipe versatile.
Required Kitchen Tools
Before you get started, here’s a list of kitchen tools you’ll need for this recipe:
- Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients and preparing both the dough and filling.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough.
- Baking Sheets: For baking the buns.
- Pan for Sautéing: A skillet to cook the mushroom filling.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Pastry Brush (optional): For brushing the buns with oil if you choose to give them a little shine.
- Parchment Paper (optional): To line your baking sheets for easy cleanup.

Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the dough and the mushroom filling (exact measurements are provided in the recipe card below):
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups): The foundation of this soft, fluffy dough.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Helps activate the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Instant yeast (1 tablespoon): This helps the dough rise and gives it the perfect airy texture.
- Warm water (1 cup): Activates the yeast. Ensure it’s warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Vegetable oil (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and helps the dough stay soft.
For the Mushroom Filling:
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the mushrooms and aromatics.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds depth and warmth to the filling.
- Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced): A fresh, zesty note that enhances the umami flavors of the mushrooms.
- Shiitake mushrooms (2 cups, diced): Known for their rich flavor and meaty texture, shiitake mushrooms create the heart of the filling.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a savory, salty umami kick to the filling.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Further enhances the umami flavors and adds a bit of sweetness.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Brings a toasted, nutty fragrance to the filling.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) mixed with water (2 tablespoons): Used to thicken the filling slightly, making it less runny.
- Green onions (2, finely sliced): Adds a fresh, slightly sharp taste that balances the richness of the filling.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients and tools, it’s time to get cooking! This recipe may seem like it takes a bit of time, but it’s simple once you break it down into these easy steps. Let’s go!
1. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add the instant yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes. You should start to see some bubbling or foaming, indicating the yeast is activated.
Next, slowly stir in the all-purpose flour and vegetable oil. Mix until the dough starts to come together. Once it forms into a rough ball, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Mushroom Filling
While the dough is rising, let’s work on the filling. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté them for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Add the shiitake mushrooms to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften and release their moisture.
Next, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir to coat the mushrooms evenly. Allow this mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
To thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this into the mushroom mixture and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the green onions. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as necessary.
Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Using a round cutter (or a glass), cut out circles of dough (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
Spoon a generous amount of the cooled mushroom filling into the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them together to seal the bun. Place the buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Repeat the process until all the dough and filling are used up.
4. Bake the Buns
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let the assembled buns rise for another 20 minutes while the oven heats up.
Once the oven is preheated, bake the buns for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. The fluffy dough should rise nicely, and the filling will have a delightful aroma as it bakes.
Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Savory Mushroom Buns
These savory mushroom buns are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas on how you can serve them:
- As an appetizer: These buns are perfect as a starter for any meal. Serve them with a simple dipping sauce such as soy sauce, chili oil, or hoisin sauce for extra flavor.
- For a light lunch or dinner: Pair the buns with a fresh side salad, miso soup, or some sautéed greens like spinach or bok choy for a balanced meal.
- In bento boxes: These buns make an excellent addition to any lunchbox. They’re easy to transport and taste great at room temperature.
Storing Savory Mushroom Buns
- Leftovers: These buns store well in an airtight container for 2-3 days in the fridge. Reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to regain some of their original texture.
- Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch for later, freeze the buns before baking. Simply place the uncooked, assembled buns on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw for about 20 minutes, then bake as usual.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 2mg
Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion
Savory Mushroom Buns are the perfect combination of soft, flavorful dough and a rich, savory filling. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a party snack, they are sure to impress. With their versatility and delicious taste, these buns will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
Savory Mushroom Buns
Course: Uncategorized12
buns1
minute15
minutes220
kcalIngredients
- For the Dough:
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 cup warm water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
- For the Mushroom Filling:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 cups shiitake mushrooms, diced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
2 green onions, finely sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Make the Dough: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Add flour and oil, and knead until smooth. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Mushroom Filling: Sauté garlic and ginger, then add mushrooms and sauces. Thicken with cornstarch slurry. Stir in green onions and set aside.
- Assemble the Buns: Roll out dough, cut into circles, and fill with the mushroom mixture. Pinch to seal and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake the Buns: Preheat oven to 375°F. Let buns rise for 20 minutes, then bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
Savory Mushroom Buns FAQs
Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the buns ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Just bake them when you’re ready.
Can I use different mushrooms?
While shiitake mushrooms are ideal for their rich flavor, you can substitute with cremini or button mushrooms if preferred.
How do I know when the buns are done?
The buns should be golden brown on top and feel light and fluffy when touched. The filling should be bubbling, but the dough should not be doughy inside.