Grandma's Buns

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Grandma’s Timeless Holiday Buns: A Family Tradition

Nothing says “holiday gathering” quite like the aroma of freshly baked buns wafting through the kitchen. My grandmother’s bun recipe has been the heart of our family’s celebrations for generations. These golden, fluffy buns weren’t just a side dish—they were the centerpiece of every holiday meal. Whether paired with butter, a dollop of peanut butter, or a drizzle of honey, these buns bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.


A Recipe Rooted in Love

Grandma’s buns were special not just because of their taste but because of the care and patience she put into making them. The long rises and careful preparation reflect a time when baking wasn’t rushed but cherished—a true labor of love. This recipe is versatile, forgiving, and worth every step, filling your home with the same love and comfort I remember as a child.


What Makes These Buns Special?

These buns are lightly sweetened, with a soft texture that makes them perfect for any topping. The recipe’s use of simple syrup gives a subtle sweetness throughout the dough, while the extended rising times create a pillowy texture. Whether you're sticking to the traditional vegetable oil or opting for avocado oil for a modern twist, these buns always deliver.


Let’s Bake!

Here's how you can bring a piece of my family tradition into your home.


INGREDIENTS

  • 2 c + 2 tbsp sugar, divided
  • 5 c water, divided 
  • 6 3/4 tsp yeast
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 c oil (traditional - vegetable oil or modern - avocado)
  • 13 c flour

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Take 2c sugar and 4c water, boil slightly, and allow to cool (simple syrup).
  2. In 1c warm water, proof the yeast by combining 2 tbsp sugar and 6 3\4 yeast. Allow 5 minutes to get bubbly. 
  3. In a large bowl, combine warm sugar water (simple syrup), 1 tbsp salt, and 4 eggs. Beat well.
  4. Add 1 c oil. Beat well.
  5. Add about 3 c of flour. Beat well.
  6. Add yeast & sugar mixture and 10 c flour. Mix well.
  7. Allow dough to rest for 10 min. 
  8. Punch down and let the dough rise for 4 hours.
  9. Punch down and let the dough rise for another 4 hours.
  10. Make dough balls about the size of a golf ball and put on cooking sheets. Let the buns rise for 8 hours.
  11. Bake at 350 degrees for 14-18 minutes until the top of the buns are golden brown. The bake time will largely depend on the size of your buns. Start watching them at the 12-minute mark. A food thermometer is used to measure the internal temperature; they are done when the temperature hits 190-200 degrees.



NOTES FOR SUCCESS

  • To make things easier, follow this timeline:
    • 2p - Start making buns
    • 4p - Punch down after the first rise
    • 6p - Punch down after the second rise
    • 10p - Form into buns and put on cooking sheets
    • Next morning - Bake buns
  • Makes 4-6 dozen, depending on the size of the dough balls.

From My Table to Yours

Every bite of these buns tells a story of tradition, patience, and love. Whether it’s your first time baking them or the hundredth, they’re sure to become a staple in your own family celebrations. Let Grandma’s timeless holiday buns bring a little extra warmth to your table this season.

Try making half the batch into Cinnamon Rolls

For the filling:

  • ⅔ cup (142g) dark brown sugar (light brown sugar also works)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup (57g) butter, softened

For the cream cheese frosting:

  • 4 oz (112g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (85g) powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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