Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns You’ll Love

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s a particular joy that comes from the kitchen on a lazy Sunday afternoon, where the only sounds are the gentle rustle of flour and the soft whirl of a mixer. It was during one such afternoon that I found myself craving something extraordinary something that combined the richness of butter with the tropical delight of coconut. Enter my Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns, a treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also takes you on a mini-vacation with every bite.

These delightful buns are a family favorite, perfect for breakfast or as a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea. Their tender, fluffy texture and luscious coconut filling create a sweet escape from the everyday hustle. Whether you re an experienced baker or someone new to the art of making bread, this recipe nests itself comfortably within your skill set, ensuring you ll have fun along the way. So, roll up your sleeves and let s transform some simple ingredients into a batch of warmth and happiness!

Why are Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns a must-try?

Soft, Fluffy Texture: Each bun is crafted to be incredibly light and soft, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of rich butter and sweet coconut filling makes for an irresistible treat.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert!
Easy to Master: Whether you re new to baking or a pro, this recipe is simple and approachable.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, these buns will have everyone coming back for seconds
Feeling adventurous? Pair them with your favorite jam for an extra flavor boost!

Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns Ingredients

Whip up these heavenly buns with ease!

For the Coconut Filling

• Butter 200 g, cubed at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Sugar 100 g, sweetens the filling perfectly.
• Plain Flour 55 g, adds structure to the creamy mixture.
• Corn Flour 30 g, keeps the filling light and airy.
• Milk Powder 20 g, intensifies the rich flavor of the coconut.
• Dried Desiccated Coconut 40 g, gives that wonderful tropical taste.

For the Dough

• Bread Flour 340 g, ensures maximum fluffiness of the buns.
• Milk Powder 17 g, adds richness to the dough.
• Custard Powder 7 g, enhances flavor and keeps the dough moist.
• Instant Yeast 7 g, helps the buns rise beautifully.
• Bread Improver (optional) 3 g, boosts the dough s elasticity for even better texture.
• Sugar 68 g, sweetens the dough just right.
• Egg 38 g, binds ingredients for a smooth consistency.
• Vinegar 7 g, strengthens the dough s structure.
• Water 176 g, activates the yeast for amazing rise.
• Milk 17 g, contributes to softness.
• Butter 34 g, enhances the bun s richness and flavor.
• Salt 3 g, balances sweetness beautifully.
• White Sesame Seeds For a crunchy topping, sprinkle as desired.

With these ingredients, your journey to making soft & moist bakery-style butter coconut buns is just a whisk away!

How to Make Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns

1. Make the Filling: Cream together the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. Slowly add the plain flour, corn flour, milk powder, and desiccated coconut. Mix well until combined, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes until firm.

2. Prepare the Dough: Line an 11 x 14-inch baking tray with baking paper. In a clean mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour, milk powder, custard powder, yeast, and sugar until well combined.

3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the egg, vinegar, water, and milk. Remember to beat one whole egg, measuring out 38 grams for the recipe while keeping the rest for an egg wash. Feel free to add a splash of milk for an extra egg wash too!

4. Knead the Dough: Fit your mixer with a dough hook and start on low speed. Knead for about 1 minute until a rough dough forms, then increase to medium-high until it cleans the sides of the bowl.

5. Incorporate Butter and Salt: Add in the cubed butter and salt, then knead at medium-high speed for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Test it with the Windowpane Test it should stretch without tearing! Cover loosely and let ferment for 15 minutes.

6. Divide the Dough: Weigh the dough and divide it by 12 to determine the portion size for each bun, approximately 58 to 60 grams each. Shape into balls and let them rest for 10 minutes on your work surface.

7. Shape the Buns: On a lightly floured surface, flip each dough ball so the smooth side is underneath. Flatten into a round disc, place 30 g of filling in the center, then wrap and seal. Arrange on the baking tray, sealed side down.

8. Proof the Buns: Allow the buns to proof in a warm place for 1 hour, covered with a tea cloth, until doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 200 °C (390 °F) for even baking.

9. Bake: Gently brush the tops of each bun with the remaining egg wash, sprinkle on sesame seeds if desired, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until they achieve a lovely deep golden brown color.

Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of honey for an extra sweet treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns

• Room Temperature Butter: Using butter at room temperature is key as it incorporates air better, ensuring your buns turn out soft and airy.
• Flour Measurement: Avoid packing the flour into the measuring cup. Instead, spoon it gently and level it off for accurate measurement to prevent dense buns.
• Kneading Time: Knead until the dough cleans the bowl and passes the Windowpane Test; this is vital for achieving that perfect soft & moist bakery-style texture.
• Proper Proofing: Make sure to proof the buns in a warm place; a cold environment will slow fermentation and lead to dense results.
• Don t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the tops before baking not only gives a beautiful color but also creates a slight gloss that enhances presentation and enjoyment.

How to Store and Freeze Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns

Room Temperature: Store buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and soft.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, though this may alter the texture slightly.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual buns in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover buns, reheat them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for 5-10 minutes until warm and fluffy.

Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns Variations

Customize your Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns with these delightful twists that will make your taste buds dance!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil for butter and almond milk for regular milk to create a vegan-friendly treat.

• Nutty Addition: Mix in 50 g of finely chopped nuts like almonds or macadamias with the coconut filling for added crunch and flavor.

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in 100 g of chocolate chips into the dough before shaping for a rich, sweet surprise in each bite.

• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top for a warm, aromatic finish that s hard to resist.

• Tropical Flavor Boost: Enhance the coconut filling with a splash of pure pineapple extract for a hint of tropical sweetness.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet coconut.

• Lemon Zest Infusion: Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus note that brightens every bite.

• Savory Option: Replace the coconut filling with a savory mix of cheese and herbs for an unexpected and delicious spin on the classic.

Let your creative juices flow and make these buns uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns?

Pair these delightful buns with a few scrumptious sides to create a memorable meal.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet buns and keeps your palate excited.
• Coconut Chai Latte: The warming spices of chai complemented with coconut milk enhance the tropical vibes of the buns, creating a cozy drink pairing.
• Honey Butter: This sweet spread adds a rich, buttery layer that makes each bite of the bun feel indulgent and luxurious.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon-sugar on warm buns for an elevated sweet treat that echoes classic bakery flavors.
• Tropical Smoothie: Blend banana, mango, and coconut for a creamy smoothie that mirrors the bun s flavor profile while adding nutritional value.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the warm buns for a decadent treat, enriching each bite with gooey sweetness and a luxurious finish.
• Matcha Green Tea: The earthy flavor of matcha offers an intriguing contrast, making this classic tea an elegant beverage choice to accompany the buns.
• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A fluffy topping that adds delightful creaminess and enhances the buns sweetness harmoniously.
• Iced Coffee: The bold coffee flavor, chilled and slightly sweetened, pairs well with the buttery richness of the buns, making it a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Enjoy these pairings, and let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey with every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns are perfect for busy weeknights and can be made ahead to save you time! You can prepare the coconut filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cream the ingredients and refrigerate the mixture until firm. Additionally, you can make and shape the dough, allowing it to proof in the fridge overnight (up to 24 hours) before baking for fresh, warm buns whenever you desire. To maintain their delicious quality, cover the dough tightly with cling wrap to prevent drying out. When you re ready to bake, let the shaped buns come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before brushing with egg wash and baking, making your kitchen feel warm and inviting with minimal effort!

Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose high-quality butter that s soft and at room temperature. Look for coconut that s fresh and unsweetened, as it will provide the best flavor. When selecting your eggs, go for large, fresh eggs for optimal moisture and richness in your buns.

How should I store the buns after baking?
For optimal freshness, store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you notice they re starting to become a bit dry, wrapping them in a clean, damp kitchen towel can help maintain moisture. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 5 days, though they might lose a bit of their fluffy texture.

Can I freeze these buns, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Soft & Moist Bakery-Style Butter Coconut Buns, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn. They will last for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave or oven for a fresh taste.

What should I do if my dough isn t rising?
Very! If your dough isn t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh check the expiration date on the packaging. If the yeast has been proofed in warm water (not hot!) with sugar for 5-10 minutes and is bubbly, it s good to use. Also, ensure that your proofing environment is warm enough; a cozy spot helps! If all else fails, consider adding a little warm water while kneading to rehydrate the dough.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, you can adapt this recipe. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative. For egg allergies, a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) can replace each egg. Always read labels to be mindful of additional allergens when purchasing ingredients!

How can I tell when my buns are done baking?
To perfectly judge doneness, look for a deep golden-brown color on the tops of the buns. They should feel light to the touch and make a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. If you re uncertain, use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached around 90 °C (190 °F). This ensures they are thoroughly baked and safe to enjoy!