Name: Homemade Burger/Dog Buns
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 5 1/2 hr (includes rising)
Yield: Makes about 18 Hamburger buns or 16 hot dog buns
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup warm water (105—115°F); 1 (1/4-ounce) package active dry yeast; 1/4 cup sugar; 5 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 2 teaspoons sesame seeds; Equipment: a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment; a 3-inch round cookie cutter (for burger buns) or 2 (13- by 9-inch) baking pans (for hot dog buns)

These are outstanding buns, substantial yet tender. The soft sides of the top-split hot dog buns are made for grilling or toasting.

Cooks' notes:

•If you dont have a stand mixer, stir ingredients together in a large bowl with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Turn out dough onto a floured surface and knead, incorporating only enough flour to keep dough from sticking, until smooth and elastic, 7 to 8 minutes.
•Buns are best the day they are made but can be frozen in sealable bags up to 2 weeks.