Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns)
Soft, fluffy yeast-raised buns infused with garlic and herbs, traditionally served with borscht, but also delicious on their own.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour(plus more for dusting)
- 1 cup Warm water(about 105-115°F (40-46°C))
- 2.25 tsp Active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil(plus more for greasing)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 0.5 tsp Salt(for garlic topping)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil(for garlic topping)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and 3 tbsp of vegetable oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
💡 Tip: You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook. - 3
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead in a stand mixer for 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
⏱️ 1.5 hours - 5
Shape the buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
💡 Tip: For a more traditional look, you can place them close together in a round baking dish. - 6
Second rise: Cover the shaped buns loosely with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
⏱️ 45 minutes - 7
Preheat oven: While the buns are rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 8
Bake the buns: Bake the pampushky for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 9
Prepare the garlic topping: While the buns are baking, combine the minced garlic, chopped dill, chopped parsley, 0.5 tsp salt, and 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a small bowl. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to your preference. - 10
Brush with garlic topping: As soon as the buns come out of the oven, brush the tops generously with the garlic and herb mixture. The heat from the buns will help infuse the flavors.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately while warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure your yeast is active for the best rise.
- ✓Don't skip the second rise; it makes the buns extra fluffy.
- ✓The garlic topping is essential for authentic pampushky; don't be shy with it!
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic topping for a bit of heat.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of butter into the garlic topping for a richer flavor.
- Serve with a side of borscht or as a general bread accompaniment.