Japanese Anpan

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, combine bread flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add the yeast mixture, beaten egg, and softened butter to the flour mixture. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First rise
   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the buns
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and flatten into a 4-inch circle. Place 3 tablespoons of red bean paste in the center of each circle. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch to seal. Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Second rise
   Cover the shaped buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 40 minutes until puffy.
5. Prepare for baking
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the buns with egg wash and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.
6. Bake the anpan
   Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.