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Homemade Beef Chili Cheese Hot Dog Buns: Classic Comfort Food

These Classic Chili Cheese Hot Dog Buns are not just a vehicle for your hot dog; they’re a flavor explosion all on their own. Infused with hearty beef chili and gooey melted cheese, they elevate every meal into a celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup warm milk (between 105-115°F / 40-46°C)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon water or milk (for egg wash, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Once the yeast is bubbly, add the melted butter to the milk mixture and stir to combine.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or a dough hook on a stand mixer on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium-low speed for 6-8 minutes.
  6. Once kneaded, flatten the dough slightly and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold the dough over and continue kneading for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is evenly incorporated.
  7. Lightly grease a clean large bowl with oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  8. Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 8-10 equal portions.
  9. Take each portion and flatten it into a rectangle. Fold the long sides towards the center, then roll tightly from one short end to the other, pinching the seam closed.
  10. Place the shaped buns seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches between each bun. Cover loosely and let them rise again for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  11. About 15 minutes before the second rise is complete, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using an egg wash, whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water or milk.
  12. Gently brush the tops of the risen buns with the egg wash (if using). Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  13. Transfer the baked buns to a wire rack immediately to cool completely.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dough rising takes time; a warm, draft-free spot develops better flavor. Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors, and ensure to cool the buns completely to prevent sogginess.