Whole Wheat Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns ~ (Dairy Free)

Here is my favorite recipe for hamburger and hot dog buns.  I don't always have luck when I make homemade bread but this recipe has never failed me.  These buns are soft with a delicious olive oil flavor.  They are very simple to put together.  I usually don't proof my yeast, is not necessary unless you think your yeast is old or dead.  Also, this recipe only requires a single rise so its only about 20 minutes of hands on time to make.  You can add an egg wash and top with sesame seeds if desired.


Ingredients:
1 cup warm water
1 package of yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
2 TBSP honey or sugar
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 egg
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/2 - 2 cups all purpose flour


Mix the first six ingredients.  Add the whole wheat flour and mix.  Knead in the all purpose flour until the dough is no longer sticky and is smooth and elasstic, about 8 minutes.  Form into 8 buns and place them on a silicone mat lined cookie sheet.  Let rise in a warm steamy area* for about an hour or so.  Bake at 350 F for 15-20 minutes.

*I create a warm steamy environment for rising dough in my microwave.  Fill 2-3 little shallow dishes with water and microwave for 3 minutes or so until the water in the dishes starts to boil and steam. Working quickly so all the steam doesn't escape, put the formed loaves in the microwave to rise.