Summer time meal at the end of winter

It is still winter here in northern MI at least that is what it says on the calendar.  We have been really lucky the last few days, having temperatures in the high 60's and low 70's.  With weather like that, we took advantage and decided to grill out some hamburgers.  Trying to get away from refined flour and additives I thought I will make homemade hamburger buns.  I always have enjoyed using my bread machine; just in the last few years have gotten away from it.  So, down in the basement I go to dig it out.  All of us are glad I did.  These buns were amazing.  They are definitely a heavier more dense bun.  The ones on the store shelves that are full of whipped air not these.  If you leave the table hungry it will be your own fault!  Pretty simple.

Like I said we are a family used to buying everything pre-made and processed. Having these be wheat buns was a huge leap.  With two picky eaters (not naming names but it's the two men in the house) I was a bit skeptical.  However, there was a resounding "These are great Mom!  This is the best hamburger bun ever.  We would have to pay $15 at a restaurant for this!"  Boy, I love my kids...keep the flattery coming.

It takes a little extra time and planning but they are so worth it.  You can also make and freeze.  Enjoy!

The recipe

Honey whole wheat hamburger buns
 
3/4 c + 2 Tbsp buttermilk (I used regular milk with 1 tsp vinegar let sit 5 minutes)
1 Tbsp non processed honey
1 egg
1Tbsp coconut oil (can use any oil)
2 C whole wheat flour
1/4 tsp lecithin (optional)
2 tsp gluten flour (optional) 1 tsp sea salt fine
1 1/2 tsps active dry yeast

Put all the ingredients in your bread machine in the order listed for your machine (liquids first etc or reverse).  Select the dough setting. Push start. When the machine beeps remove the dough.  You are done with the machine.

On a floured cutting board but the dough into 6 equal pieces and form into ball.  Leave about 2 inches apart on a lightly greased pan or one lined with parchment or silicone liner. Cover with a non lint warm damp kitchen towel (clean is preferable, lol) or plastic wrap.  Let rise in a non drafty location for 1 hour.

Pre heat oven to 400.  If you would like you can brush tops with egg whites or butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds or herbs.  Bake the buns for 12-15 minutes or until browned.

Notes: You can use the regular milk with 1 tsp vinegar to 'make' buttermilk.  I used non processed honey but you can use regular honey.  Any oil you have can be substituted for the coconut oil. The lecithin and gluten flour can be found at the health food store.  It is not necessary but helps with conditioning the bread and lets it rise better.  It is also a natural preservative. Gluten flour is optional as well.  It helps give bread lift and rising.  This really helps in whole wheat breads that are usually denser and heavier.  You never need much of either of these.  Store in a cool dry place and it keeps for several months.