Custard Buns (Nai Huang Bao, 奶黄包) are soft, fluffy steamed buns filled with a creamy, sweet egg custard, making them a beloved dim sum dessert. Known for their pillow-like texture and rich, silky filling, these buns are perfect for afternoon tea, dessert, or special occasions.

The sweet, velvety custard contrasts beautifully with the light, airy bun, creating a comforting and indulgent treat.

📝 Ingredients (Makes 12 buns)

For the Bun Dough:

250g all-purpose flour

2 tsp instant yeast

40g sugar

120ml warm milk

1 tbsp vegetable oil

½ tsp salt


For the Custard Filling:

2 eggs

60g sugar

100ml milk

30g unsalted butter

1 tbsp cornstarch

½ tsp vanilla extract

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bun Dough

Mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl.

Gradually add warm milk and vegetable oil, kneading until a smooth dough forms.

Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling

In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until sugar dissolves.

Heat milk gently and mix into the eggs while stirring continuously.

Add cornstarch and cook over low heat until mixture thickens.

Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract, and let cool completely.

Chill filling for easier handling.

Step 3: Assemble the Buns

Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal portions.

Flatten each portion into a small disc and place ~1 tsp of custard filling in the center.

Gather edges and pinch to seal, forming a smooth round bun.

Step 4: Steam the Buns

Line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper.

Place buns with space between them and let rise for 15–20 minutes.

Steam over boiling water for 12–15 minutes until buns are fluffy and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot or warm for the softest texture and molten custard filling.

Enjoy the contrast of airy bun and creamy custard in every bite.

🌿 Tips & Variations

Dough: Knead until smooth for soft, fluffy buns.

Custard: Strain to remove lumps for silky texture.

Sealing: Pinch edges tightly to prevent filling leakage during steaming.

Flavor Variations: Add pandan extract or matcha powder to custard for a twist.

🍚 Serving & Experience

Custard Buns are soft, pillowy, and luxuriously creamy, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and lightness.

They are a classic dim sum dessert, ideal for afternoon tea, festive meals, or anytime you crave a comforting sweet treat, showcasing the elegance and richness of Cantonese pastry craftsmanship.