Cocktail bun (gai mei bao) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
China Servings: 4-6
China Servings: 4-6The cocktail bun, or gai mei bao, is a beloved sweet bread that originated in Hong Kong in the 1950s. It was initially created by resourceful bakers who wanted to use leftover unsold buns, mixing them with sugar and coconut to create a delectable filling. This fragrant delicacy soon became a staple in Hong Kong’s bakeries, cherished for its soft, fluffy texture and sweet, buttery coconut filling. The cocktail bun represents the innovative spirit of Hong Kong’s culinary scene and continues to delight those who try it.
Ingredients
- bread flour – 3 cups / 360 g
- sugar – 1/4 cup / 50 g
- instant yeast – 2 1/4 tsp / 7 g
- warm milk – 1 cup / 240 ml
- butter, softened – 1/4 cup / 56 g
- salt – 1 tsp / 6 g
- egg – 1, large
- desiccated coconut – 1/2 cup / 45 g
- butter, for filling – 1/4 cup / 56 g
- sugar, for filling – 1/4 cup / 50 g
- egg wash – 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
- Pour warm milk into the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Add softened butter and continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- For the filling, cream butter and sugar together, then stir in desiccated coconut.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 8 equal parts.
- Roll each piece of dough into a ball, flatten slightly, and place a tablespoon of filling in the center.
- Seal the dough around the filling and shape into a log.
- Place on a baking tray, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the risen buns with egg wash.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Substitutions
- bread flour -> all-purpose flour
- warm milk -> warm water mixed with 2 tbsp milk powder
- desiccated coconut -> sweetened coconut flakes
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a vanilla extract for enhanced aroma.
- Increase the filling quantity for a richer taste.
- Brush buns with sugar syrup right after baking for a glossy finish.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
