Garlic Buns from the American Queen

Dallas and Nathan traveled with Aunt June Lamme eight years ago on the American Queen Steamboat down the Ohio River.  Nathan thoughtfully purchased a cookbook from the ship's cook for me and one of the best burger buns is my go-to.  From Kathy Casey's cookbook, Kathy Casey Cooks - Favorites.

Garlic Burger Buns Makes 6 buns

• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/3 cup warm water (90°F to 110°F)
• 1 package dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
• 2 eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp finely minced garlic
• Coarse ground salt for sprinkling

In a small bowl stir together the milk, olive, oil, sugar, warm water, and yeast.  Stir to dissolve yeast and let sit about 10 minutes then pour into a large mixer bowl. 

Whisk the eggs in a small bowl and add all but 1 tbsp. to the liquid ingredients, reserving the extra for brushing the bun tops.  Mix in flour, salt, and garlic with paddle attachment until incorporated and then knead for about 3 to 4 minutes, as needed, to make a smooth, moist smoth, dough.  

Place in a large greased bowl, cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours. Punch down and divide dough into 6 pieces.  Roll into balls and let rest 10 minutes covered with a towel.  With a well-floured rolling pin, roll balls into 4-inch rounds.  Place on a greased baking sheet.  Cover lightly with a towel and let rise until almost doubled. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F.

In a small bowl, whisk remaining egg together with 1/2 tbsp water.  Brush the tops of the buns lightly with egg wash, sprinkle lightly with coarse ground salt and place in oven. Bake about 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.  

Cool buns on a rack. That's the recipe, but i usually make 8 buns with this recipe since they are rather large.  They also need to be eaten fresh or they tend to become crumbly.