Name: Easy Papparoti Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Malaysian
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp instant yeast; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup warm water; 1 egg, room temperature; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 6–8 small cubes of unsalted butter (about 1 tsp each), chilled; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 egg; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp instant coffee dissolved in 1 tsp hot water; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

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If you’ve never had the sheer joy of biting into a freshly baked Easy Papparoti, you’re in for an absolute treat! This irresistible Malaysian coffee bun is famous for its pillowy-soft bread, ultra-buttery filling, and that signature crispy coffee topping that makes every bite unforgettable. With its cozy aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, Easy Papparoti is the kind of baked good that disappears in seconds — seriously, be prepared for requests for seconds (and thirds)! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe transforms your kitchen into your new favorite bakery, and it’s much simpler than it looks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Easy Papparoti comes from a handful of simple ingredients, each working together to create that wonderful soft crumb, rich buttery center, and deliciously crisp coffee crust. Here’s what you’ll need — and why each component matters:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough — choose a good-quality flour for the softest, fluffiest buns.
Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the dough and bring out those cozy flavors in every bite.
Instant yeast: Guarantees a good rise and airy texture for the absolute best Easy Papparoti buns.
Salt: A pinch balances the flavors and enhances the sweet-buttery notes.
Warm milk: Adds richness and tenderness as it hydrates the dough.
Warm water: Helps bring the dough together — the key is warmth for active yeast.
Egg: Binds everything and creates that beautiful golden crumb inside.
Unsalted butter (softened for dough): The secret to unbeatable softness and that distinct, comforting richness.
Unsalted butter (chilled cubes for filling): Hidden inside for bursts of melty, buttery luxury with every bite.
Powdered sugar (for topping): Melts in the oven to create a lacy, crackled top.
Egg (for topping): Gives structure and helps the topping puff and crisp.
All-purpose flour (for topping): Thickens the topping so it pipes and sets nicely.
Instant coffee (for topping): Dissolved for the signature Papparoti aroma! Use espresso for an extra punch.
Vanilla extract: A touch of warmth and depth for your coffee topping.

How to Make Easy Papparoti

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by gathering all your dough ingredients in a roomy bowl: flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Give them a quick mix with a whisk or your hands. Next, pour in the warm milk and water, and crack in your egg. Mix everything together until a soft, shaggy dough begins to form — you’ll feel it come together fast!

Step 2: Knead and Add Butter

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead vigorously for 8–10 minutes. It should become smoother and more elastic with each turn. Next, add in the 2 tablespoons of softened butter and keep kneading until it’s fully incorporated (the dough will look a little slippery at first, but don’t worry, it’ll quickly drink it up). When it’s smooth and springy, pop it back in the bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Topping

While the dough rises, it’s coffee topping time. Beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until wonderfully light and creamy. Add in your egg, dissolved instant coffee, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth, then stir in the flour to create a silky paste. Transfer this magical mixture to a piping bag and refrigerate; chilling is essential so the topping pipes neatly later on.

Step 4: Shape and Fill the Buns

Once your dough has puffed up beautifully, punch it down gently, then divide into 6 to 8 equal pieces. Flatten each one in your hand, press a chilled cube of butter right in the center, and gather the dough around it, pinching to seal. You’re aiming for tight, smooth balls — tuck any seams underneath and set the buns on a parchment-lined baking tray. Let them rise for another 30 minutes; this second proof gives Easy Papparoti its final airy structure.

Step 5: Pipe and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and ready. Snip a small tip on your coffee topping piping bag, then pipe a tight spiral over the top of each bun, starting from the center and working outwards — don’t worry if it isn’t perfect, it’ll spread into gorgeous crackles as it bakes. Bake your Easy Papparoti for 15 to 18 minutes until golden, crisp on top, and (brace yourself!) making your kitchen smell like a fancy coffee shop. Cool just until they can be handled, then dig in while warm and the centers are gloriously melty.

How to Serve Easy Papparoti

Garnishes

While these coffee buns are plenty fabulous on their own, a little extra can make them feel bakery-special. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted chocolate, or even add a swirl of lightly whipped cream on the side for serious dessert vibes. A pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of toasted nuts complements the Easy Papparoti’s coffee topping perfectly.

Side Dishes

Easy Papparoti pairs so well with a cup of strong coffee or warm chai, but that’s just the beginning. Try serving alongside fresh fruit (think mango, berries, or even a citrus salad) to balance the bun’s rich flavors. For a brunch spread, these buns are divine next to creamy scrambled eggs or Greek yogurt with honey.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Stack your Easy Papparoti on a rustic wooden board with coffee beans scattered around for a chic bakery look, or serve each bun on a petite cake stand. For gatherings, consider slicing each in half and filling with a scoop of ice cream for a show-stopping dessert sandwich, or pile on whipped cream and drizzle with caramel for a sweet treat that wows every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Easy Papparoti, pop them in an airtight container once completely cooled. They’ll stay soft and tasty at room temperature for up to 2 days, though the signature crispy top is best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

Easy Papparoti freeze surprisingly well! Wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap, then stash in a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to one month. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature, then give them a quick reheat for that just-baked warmth.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Easy Papparoti in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. This will bring back the crusty coffee top and make the filling all gooey again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the buns rubbery and soften the crisp topping.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Papparoti without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! All you need are clean hands and a little patience. Knead the dough by hand until it’s smooth and elastic — it’s even a little therapeutic.

Why does my coffee topping spread too much?

If your topping is sliding off before baking, it’s likely too warm. Always refrigerate it before piping, and pipe it when the buns are ready to go straight in the oven.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter gives Easy Papparoti its irresistible taste and melting center, but in a pinch, good-quality margarine can work. Just note the flavor and texture may be a little different.

How do I make a stronger coffee flavor?

Swap the instant coffee for instant espresso powder to amp up the coffee punch. Don’t be afraid to play with the amount to suit your taste!

Can I make the buns the night before?

Yes! You can shape the buns, cover, and refrigerate overnight after the first rise. Allow them to come to room temp and proof slightly before baking the next day for peak Easy Papparoti freshness.

Final Thoughts

Once you try baking Easy Papparoti at home, you’ll see why this legendary Malaysian bun is a global favorite. It’s warm, buttery, and just the right touch of sweet — the perfect companion to your next coffee break. Give it a go, share with friends, and don’t be surprised if Easy Papparoti becomes a new staple in your baking rotation!

Easy Papparoti Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
Yield: 6–8 buns 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make Easy Papparoti, a delightful Malaysian butter bun with a rich coffee topping. These buns are soft, buttery, and perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp instant yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup warm water
1 egg, room temperature
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling:

6–8 small cubes of unsalted butter (about 1 tsp each), chilled

For the Coffee Topping:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant coffee dissolved in 1 tsp hot water
1/4 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, water, and egg, and knead until a soft dough forms. Knead in softened butter and let rise for 1 hour.
Make the Coffee Topping: Beat butter and sugar, then add egg, coffee mixture, and vanilla. Mix in flour, transfer to a piping bag, and refrigerate.
Shape and Bake: Divide risen dough, place butter cubes in the center, seal into balls, and let rise. Pipe coffee topping over each bun and bake until golden.