These Samoan coconut buns are soft, fluffy rolls with a yummy hint of coconut! They are slightly sweet, making them perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack anytime.
When you take a bite, the light sweetness and coconut flavor just make you smile! I love enjoying them warm, sometimes with a bit of butter. They’re such a treat! 🌴🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for these buns, but you can try bread flour for a chewier texture. If you’re gluten-free, a gluten-free flour mix can be used, but results will vary.
Coconut Milk: This is essential for that coconut flavor! If you can’t find it, you can substitute almond milk or oat milk mixed with a bit of coconut extract for a similar taste.
Desiccated Coconut: This adds texture and flavor. Sweetened or unsweetened both work. If you want to make it dairy-free, check for dairy-free brands.
Eggs: They help with binding and moisture. If you prefer a vegan option, substitute each egg with ¼ cup applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
How Do I Get My Buns to Rise Perfectly?
Getting your buns to rise well is key for a fluffy texture. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Warm your mixing environment slightly. Yeast thrives in warmth! A sunny spot or a slightly warmed oven (turned off) works well.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to keep it moist while rising.
- Give the dough enough time to double in size. If it’s cooler, it may take longer!
Remember not to rush the rising. Patience is the secret ingredient for light and fluffy buns!
Samoan Coconut Buns Sweet Bread Rolls
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup coconut milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling on top)
- Egg wash: 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, plus 2 to 2.5 hours for rising time. Baking takes an additional 20-25 minutes, so set aside about 3 hours total. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
Start by combining the warm coconut milk and whole milk in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and desiccated coconut. Mix them together until everything is well combined, creating a delicious base for your buns.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well mixed. This adds richness and flavor to our dough.
4. Form the Dough:
Now, pour the yeast mixture and the wet egg mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until a soft dough begins to form.
5. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it feels smooth and elastic. This step is important for building the dough’s structure!
6. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place. Give it about 1 to 1.5 hours to double in size. Patience pays off!
7. Shape the Buns:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a round bun. It’s okay if they aren’t perfect!
8. Second Rise:
Arrange the buns on a greased or parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between them. Cover again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they’re puffy.
9. Preheat the Oven:
While the buns are rising, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.
10. Prepare for Baking:
Once the buns have puffed up nicely, brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with extra desiccated coconut and a touch of sugar for a lovely finish.
11. Bake the Buns:
Put the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!
12. Cool the Buns:
After baking, remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This will keep them fluffy and prevent them from getting soggy on the bottom.
13. Serve and Enjoy:
These buns are best served warm. You can even spread on some coconut butter or cinnamon butter for an extra treat. Enjoy the delightful flavor of your homemade Samoan coconut buns!
Bon appétit! 🌴🍞
img src=”https://familydinnermagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/samoan-coconut-buns-sweet-bread-rolls.webp” alt=””>
Can I Substitute the Coconut Milk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have coconut milk on hand, you can use regular milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly!
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to stale yeast or a cool environment. Make sure your yeast is fresh and try letting the dough rise in a warmer spot, like near a heater or in a pre-warmed (but turned off) oven.
How Should I Store Leftover Coconut Buns?
Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Fillings to the Buns?
Definitely! You can add fillings like chocolate chips, pineapple, or even a sweetened cream cheese mixture before shaping the dough into buns. Just be cautious not to overfill!
