Best Black Burger Bun Recipe

Lastest Updated July 25, 2024
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Black burger buns are a fun twist that can make your meals exciting. Their cool color and tasty flavor make every burger look and taste amazing.

Whether you’re planning a themed party, want to impress your friends at a cookout, or simply crave something out of the ordinary, this black burger bun recipe will turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience.

Today, I’ll show you how to make these awesome buns right in your kitchen. I’ll pick the best ingredients and walk through each step together. Moreover, you can also find tips, serving suggestions, and storage guides at the end of the article.

Letโ€™s start baking and create something really special for dinner!

Black Burger Buns: A Bold Twist on a Classic

The black burger bun is a brioche burger bun that can be made in various sizes and served in many ways. The feature that makes it so special is its black color is squid ink.


You can also use bamboo or coconut charcoal, known as activated charcoal, which is safe but may affect digestion slightly.

Although squid ink adds a salty, seafood-like flavor, it does not overpower the bun. It’s also used in dishes like squid ink pasta, which pairs wonderfully with these buns for a novel and exciting dinner.

Despite its striking appearance, this bun is as delicious as any homemade burger bun, proving that looks can be deceiving.

Must-Have Tools for Baking Perfect Black Burger Buns

To make these uniquely colored black burger buns, youโ€™ll need 6 key tools below:

Black Burger Bun Tools
  • Oven: For baking the buns to perfection.
  • Mixing Bowl: To mix your ingredients thoroughly.
  • Baking Tray: To hold your buns as they bake.
  • Baking Mat: For kneading and shaping the dough.
  • Basting Brush: For applying the egg wash.
  • Oven Glove: To safely handle hot items.

Ingredients Checklist for Black Burger Buns

Below are the vital ingredients to create your delicious black burger buns:

Black Burger Bun Ingredients
  • Bread Flour: For the structure of the buns.
  • Yeast: To help the dough rise.
  • Warm Milk: To activate the yeast.
  • Sugar, Salt: The sugar feeds the yeast and adds a slight sweetness, while the salt enhances flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: For a tender texture.
  • Squid Ink: For the signature black color.
  • Whole Egg: For adding richness to the dough.
  • Sesame Seeds: For a nutty, crunchy topping.
  • For the Egg Wash: 1 egg yolk and 2 teaspoons of fresh milk.

From Mix to Oven: Creating Perfect Black Burger Buns

Making black burger buns is a creative way to add some drama to your burgers. Here’s a simple recipe broken down into 5 easy steps:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Mix these ingredients in a large bowl: 

  • 0.42 cups of warm fresh milk
  • 0.25 ounces of yeast
  • 0.71 ounces of sugar
  • 1 whole egg
Black Burger Bun Step 1

Stir well and let it sit for 6 minutes, allowing the yeast to become frothy.

Black Burger Bun Step 2

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Add 0.44 pounds of bread flour to your yeast mixture and mix them thoroughly. 

Black Burger Bun Step 3

Slowly add 0.17 cups of squid ink to the dough. Mix until it achieves a uniform black color. Then, sprinkle in 0.5 teaspoon of salt and keep mixing for an even blend.

Black Burger Bun Step 4

Transfer the dough onto a baking mat, spread the butter over it, and knead for about 15 minutes or until smooth.

Black Burger Bun Step 5

Let the dough rest in a warm spot covered with a cloth for 40 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Black Burger Bun Step 6

Step 3: Shape the Buns

Lift the dough from the bowl, give it a good knead, and lightly press to expel excess air.

Black Burger Bun Step 7

Divide the dough into 8 equal parts.

Black Burger Bun Step 8

Roll each piece tenderly between your hands to form smooth, round balls. 

Black Burger Bun Step 9

Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray, giving them some space to expand. Let them sit for another 10 minutes to rise slightlyโ€”theyโ€™re almost ready for the spotlight.

Black Burger Bun Step 10

Step 4: Baking

Preheat your oven to 392ยฐF (200ยฐC). Whisk together the egg yolk and 2 teaspoons of fresh milk. Brush this golden mixture over the buns with a feather-light touch.

Black Burger Bun Step 11

Then sprinkle them with sesame seeds for a bit of crunch. 

Black Burger Bun Step 12

Slide the tray into the oven.

Black Burger Bun Step 13

Bake for 15 minutes, until the buns puff up and achieve a slight crispness.

Black Burger Bun Step 14

Step 5: Cooling

After baking, remove the buns from the oven. Theyโ€™ll need to cool down on a wire rack, taking a breather after their hot ordeal. Once cool, theyโ€™re ready to be sliced and filled with your favorite burger ingredients.

Tips to Take Your Black Burger Buns to the Next Level

Here are 3 simple tips to help you get great results when making black burger bun:

  • For the richest black color in your bread, it’s best to use pure squid ink. You can adjust the amount of squid ink based on your personal taste preferences. 
  • If squid ink isn’t available, a great alternative is 2-3 teaspoons of activated charcoal powder. Hereโ€™s how to use it: First, mix the flour, salt, and yeast thoroughly. Then, stir in the charcoal powder until the dough turns evenly black. Proceed with the recipe as usual from there. 
  • Keep in mind, the baking time might need adjusting depending on your oven’s type and the size of the bread.

What Are the Ideal Sides for Black Burger Buns?

Black burger buns, with their striking color, can be paired with a variety of fillings and sides to create a delicious meal. Here are 5 tasty ideas:

  • Classic Fillings: Go traditional with a beef patty, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and your favorite sauces. The contrast between the dark bun and the bright ingredients makes for a visually appealing dish.
  • Seafood Options: Try a grilled salmon or crab cake patty for a more gourmet burger experience.
  • Vegetarian Delights: Load your black bun with a veggie or black bean patty, avocado slices, sprouts, and a zesty mayo.
  • Cheese Choices: A slice of sharp cheddar or creamy blue cheese can really stand out against the dark bun.
  • Sides: Pair your black burger with crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh side salad. These sides complement the unique look and taste of the black bun perfectly.

How to Store and Reheat Black Burger Buns Properly?

Storing and reheat black burger buns properly ensures they stay fresh and tasty for your next meal. Hereโ€™s a simple guide on how to do it:

  • Cool Completely: Before storing your buns, let them cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which could make the buns soggy.
  • Use an Airtight Container: Place the cooled buns in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This helps to keep them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
  • Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to eat the buns within a couple of days, you can keep them at room temperature. Just make sure theyโ€™re in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the buns for up to a week. Just wrap them in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other flavors from the fridge.
  • Freeze for Long-term Storage: If you wonโ€™t be using your buns soon, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months. 
  • Reheat: Whenever you feel like eating burgers, you can reheat burgers in a few simple steps. There are also various kitchen appliances you can utilize to reheat burgers, ranging from conventional ovens to air fryers or microwaves.
Black Burger Bun

What I Most Like About Black Burger Buns?

This recipe is a perfect choice for party snacks as they can be made as small buns that can be served as appetizers. And their fantastic black color will attract all your guests. I have never had anyone leave the party without asking for the recipe for these amazing black burger buns.

And, the most important thing, these are simple to prepare and bake. Even if you have never tried to bake before. If you are not sure, just follow the recipe and measurements, and there is no way that you can go wrong with these.

Do you like this black burger bun recipe? Have you tried it already? Share your thoughts with me, and if you have photos of your brioche buns, feel free to share them, too.

Black Burger Bun

Best Black Burger Bun Recipe

Black burger buns are unique and delicious treats that everyone should try at least once. Level up your burger with these tasty buns today!
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate Save Recipe
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Multiple
Keyword: Black Burger Bun Recipe, Black Burger Bun Recipe with Squid Ink
Level of Difficulty: Medium
Dietary Preference: None
Prep Time: 50 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 192kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking tray
  • Baking Mat
  • Basting Brush
  • Oven Glove

Ingredients

For the Buns

  • 0.42 cups warm fresh milk
  • 0.44 pounds bread flour
  • 0.25 ounces yeast
  • 0.71 ounces sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1.06 ounces unsalted butter
  • 0.17 cups of squid ink
  • 1 whole egg
  • 1.06 ounces sesame seeds

For the Egg Wash

  • 2 teaspoons fresh milk
  • 1 egg yolk

Instructions 

  • Mix the warm milk, yeast, sugar, and whole egg in a large bowl.
    Black Burger Bun Step 1
  • Allow to sit for 6 minutes until frothy.
    Black Burger Bun Step 2
  • Add bread flour to the yeast mixture, mixing until well combined.
    Black Burger Bun Step 3
  • Incorporate the squid ink and salt, mixing until the dough is uniformly colored.
    Black Burger Bun Step 4
  • Transfer the dough to a baking mat and spread butter evenly over its surface. Knead for about 15 minutes, until smooth and non-sticky.
    Black Burger Bun Step 5
  • Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm area for 40 minutes, or until doubled in size.
    Black Burger Bun Step 6
  • Remove the dough from the bowl, knead it, and gently press it to let out some air.
    Black Burger Bun Step 7
  • Divide the dough into 8 equal parts.
    Black Burger Bun Step 8
  • Shape each into a smooth ball.
    Black Burger Bun Step 9
  • Place on a parchment-lined baking tray. Let them rise for an additional 10 minutes.
    Black Burger Bun Step 10
  • Preheat the oven to 392ยฐF (200ยฐC). Whisk together the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash. Brush the buns with the egg wash.
    Black Burger Bun Step 11
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
    Black Burger Bun Step 12
  • Place the tray in the oven.
    Black Burger Bun Step 13
  • Bake for 15 minutes, or until the buns are fully risen and have a crisp exterior.
    Black Burger Bun Step 14
  • Remove the buns from the oven and let cool on a rack before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Use pure squid ink for the deepest black color in your bread; adjust the amount to suit your taste.
  • Substitute squid ink with 2-3 teaspoons of activated charcoal powder if necessary. Mix it thoroughly with flour, salt, and yeast until the dough is uniformly black.
  • Baking time may vary based on the bread’s size and the type of oven used.

Nutrition

Calories: 192kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 163mg | Potassium: 83mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 0.003mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 1mg
Tien - Alden

Tien – Alden

Content Writer

Expertise

Home Cooking, Recipe Development, Food Editor, Beverage Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Asian Food Content Creator

Education

Saigon Tourism College

  • Program: Certificate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Vietnamese and Chinese cuisines.

Advanced Culinary Workshop, Beijing

  • Program: A three-month intensive program of Advanced Culinary Workshop
  • Focus: Authentic Chinese cuisine.

Vietnamese Traditional Cooking School

  • Program: Certificate of Vietnamese Traditional Cooking
  • Focus: A specialized course on traditional and family recipes passed down through generations.

American College of Vietnam

  • Program: Bartender
  • Focus: Provide background knowledge and help students confident to create appealing drinks

Alden is a skilled chef with expertise in Asian cuisines, known for blending traditional Vietnamese and Chinese cooking with contemporary innovations. Alden’s passion for Asian flavors and her creative approach to both food and beverages inspires fellow chefs and those aspiring to enter the field.

5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

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