Chinese Pineapple Bun

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the beaten egg to the yeast mixture, then pour into the flour mixture. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth, then add softened butter and continue kneading for 8-10 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth.
2. First rise
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Make the topping
   While the dough is rising, prepare the topping. Cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mix well. Fold in the cake flour and milk powder until just combined. Form the topping mixture into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Shape the buns
   Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches between each bun. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Add the topping
   Remove the topping from the refrigerator and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin disc between two pieces of plastic wrap. Remove the top plastic wrap and place the topping disc on top of each risen bun, gently pressing to adhere.
6. Create the pineapple pattern
   Use a small knife or scissors to make criss-cross patterns on the topping. Brush the topping with egg wash, which will give it the characteristic golden color when baked.
7. Bake the buns
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 12-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.