Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns)

How to Make Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns)

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1. Mix the flour, yeast, sugar and salt in a large bowl. Add the milk, egg and melted butter and mix to a soft dough.

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2. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Put it in an oiled bowl, cover and leave to rise for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

   Mark done Start 8 min timer

3. Line a large baking tray with baking parchment. Knock the air out of the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a smooth ball and set them close together on the tray.

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4. Cover and leave to prove for 30 minutes, until puffy.

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5. Heat the oven to 190°C / 375°F (170°C / 340°F fan). Brush the buns with the egg yolk and milk glaze and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until deep golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.

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6. While the buns bake, mix the oil, garlic, dill, salt and warm water in a small bowl.

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7. Brush the hot buns generously with the garlic mixture and cover with a clean tea towel for 5 minutes so the crust softens. Serve warm.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

Tips for Making Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns)

• Brush the topping on while the buns are hot. The oil soaks in, and the heat mellows the raw garlic.
• Let the dough get properly puffy in both rises. Underproved buns are dense, and overproved ones collapse in the oven.
• Crush the garlic to a paste with a pinch of salt. Chunks burn the mouth, and a paste blends into the oil.

Common Substitutions & Variations

• An eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder per clove is the usual stand-in when you are out of fresh garlic — it will not caramelise the same way, but it carries the flavour.

What to Serve with Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns)

• Ukrainian borscht
• Chicken noodle soup
• Sour cream

Storing & Reheating Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns)

Best eaten warm on the day they are made. Keep in an airtight bag for 2 days and reheat in a 160°C / 325°F (140°C fan) oven for 5 minutes. Freeze without the topping for 2 months.

Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns) FAQ: Common Questions

Pampushky (Ukrainian Garlic Buns) Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.