Korean Coffee Buns

Korean Coffee Buns, also known as Rotiboy or Mexican Coffee Buns, are soft and airy brioche-style bread topped with a buttery, crisp coffee-flavored crust. These light, fluffy, and aromatic buns are a staple in Korean bakeries like Paris Baguette, offering the perfect balance of rich coffee flavor and soft, pillowy texture. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a bakery-style treat at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Texture – Made with brioche flour for a rich, tender crumb.
• Crispy Coffee Topping – A fragrant, slightly sweet coffee crust that melts in your mouth.
• Perfect for Breakfast or Snacks – Best enjoyed warm with coffee, tea, or milk.
• Homemade Bakery-Style Buns – Recreate the famous Korean café experience at home.
• Great for Sharing – A crowd-pleasing recipe that makes 10 delicious buns.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough

• Brioche flour (for a softer texture, or use all-purpose flour)
• Instant yeast (to help the dough rise quickly)
• Castor sugar (fine sugar for even sweetness)
• Salt (balances the flavors)
• Milk (provides moisture and tenderness)
• Egg (adds richness and structure)
• Unsalted butter (for a soft, buttery texture)

For the Coffee Topping

• Regular flour (to create the light crust)
• Unsalted butter (to make the topping creamy and rich)
• Instant coffee powder (for the signature coffee flavor)
• Castor sugar (for sweetness and caramelization)
• Water (to dissolve the coffee and ensure smoothness)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast – Warm the milk slightly and mix with instant yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine brioche flour, salt, and remaining sugar.
3. Combine and Knead – Add the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter to the flour mixture. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise – Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Shape the Buns

1. Divide the Dough – Punch down the dough and divide into 10 equal pieces.
2. Shape into Balls – Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place on a lined baking tray.
3. Second Rise – Cover and let rise for 45 minutes.

3. Make the Coffee Topping

1. In a small bowl, dissolve instant coffee powder in warm water.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Mix in the dissolved coffee and gradually add flour, stirring until smooth.
4. Transfer the topping into a piping bag and chill for 10 minutes.

4. Bake the Buns

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pipe a spiral pattern of coffee topping over each bun.
3. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown and crisp on top.
4. Let cool slightly and enjoy warm.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 10 buns
• Preparation Time: 2 hours
• Baking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Coffee Buns – Add cocoa powder to the topping for a mocha twist.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped almonds or hazelnuts on top before baking.
• Caramel Drizzle – Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
• Stuffed Buns – Fill the buns with custard, Nutella, or cream cheese for a surprise inside.
• Vegan Option – Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and egg replacer.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep for up to 5 days. Warm before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in a toaster oven or air fryer for a crispier texture.

FAQs

What is brioche flour?

Brioche flour has a higher protein content than regular flour, making the buns softer and richer.

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead?

Yes! The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Why is my coffee topping too thick?

If the topping is too thick to pipe, add a little warm water to loosen it.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Let the shaped dough balls rise in the fridge overnight, then bake the next morning.

How do I make my buns extra soft?

Make sure the dough is well-kneaded and let it rise fully before baking.

Can I use espresso powder instead of instant coffee?

Yes! Espresso powder gives a stronger coffee flavor.

Why didn’t my buns rise properly?

Check that your yeast is fresh and active, and allow enough time for rising.

Can I make mini coffee buns?

Yes! Make smaller dough balls and reduce baking time to 12–15 minutes.

How do I get the perfect coffee topping crust?

Ensure the butter is soft and the topping is evenly piped for a smooth, even bake.

What do these buns pair well with?

Enjoy with a latte, matcha, or a glass of milk for the perfect treat!

Conclusion

These Korean Coffee Buns are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy bread and a crisp coffee-infused crust. Inspired by popular Korean bakeries, they are rich, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, these homemade buns will bring a taste of café-style baking to your kitchen. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, coffee-infused treat!