If you love Chinese bakery-style treats but want an easy hack to make them at home, then this Matcha Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao) is for you!
Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, these bolo bao buns are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or an afternoon treat. Using Hawaiian rolls and a simple air fryer method, you can enjoy this irresistible snack in less than 30 minutes!
What is a Matcha Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao)?
A matcha pineapple bun, or bolo bao, is a Hong Kong-style sweet bun known for its soft interior and crispy topping. While traditional pineapple buns don’t contain pineapple, they get their name from the golden, crackly “pineapple-like” crust on top.
This version adds matcha powder for a vibrant green color and a hint of earthy flavor, making it a fun twist on a classic crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Matcha Pineapple Bun
- Soft and fluffy texture: These buns are tender and light, perfect for any snack or breakfast.
- Quick and easy hack: Using pre-made Hawaiian rolls and an air fryer makes this recipe fast and stress-free.
- Flavorful and unique: The matcha topping adds a subtle, earthy sweetness that’s delicious and unique.
- Family-friendly treat: These buns are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making them perfect for sharing.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Air Fryer
- Basting Brush
Ingredients
- Butter: Softened at room temperature so it can be mixed with sugar to create the topping paste.
- Sugar
- Egg yolks
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Cake flour or all-purpose flour
- Matcha powder: Gives the buns their signature flavor and color.
- Salt
- Baking powder
- Hawaiian rolls: Using Hawaiian rolls is the key to making these Matcha Pineapple Buns much quicker at home.
- Egg: Used for the egg wash to give the topping a golden sheen.
Customizations
- Bread alternative: You can swap Hawaiian rolls for brioche slices if you prefer more of a toast than a bun.
- Baking option: These buns can also be baked in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–11 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.
How to Make Matcha Pineapple Bun
Make the Matcha Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter and sugar until smooth.
Stir in egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Add flour, sifted matcha powder, salt, and baking powder, then mix until a thick dough forms.
Prepare the Buns
Using a butter knife, gently spread the matcha topping over the tops of each Hawaiian roll.
Make diagonal cross-hatch marks with a sharp knife for that classic pineapple bun look.
Air Fry the Matcha Pineapple Buns
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (190°C) for a few minutes. Lightly brush the tops with egg wash.
Place the buns in the air fryer, leaving enough space between them for even air circulation.
Air fry for 6–9 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and crispy.
Serve
Serve warm and enjoy the soft, fluffy buns with a slightly crisp matcha topping.
Storage
Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for 3–4 days.
Tips To Make the Perfect Matcha Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao)
- Even topping: Spread the matcha paste evenly on each roll for consistent browning and flavor.
- Cross-hatch marks: Make the diagonal marks gently to avoid tearing the topping.
- Air fryer spacing: Give buns enough room to allow air circulation for even crisping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other bread?
You can use brioche slices as an alternative to Hawaiian rolls for more of a toast than a bun.
Can I bake these Matcha Pineapple Buns?
Yes! Bake at 350°F (175°C) in a preheated oven for 8–11 minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
Can I make these without matcha?
Absolutely! Simply omit the matcha powder for a classic pineapple bun topping.
Can I freeze these buns?
Yes! Wrap the cooled buns individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the air fryer or oven before serving.
Related Recipes You'll Love
Matcha Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao)
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter softened at room temperature
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cake flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoon matcha powder sifted
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 12 pieces Hawaiian rolls I used one package of King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 1 egg for egg wash
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, mix the softened butter and sugar with a spoon until a smooth paste. Mix in the egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Add the flour, sifted matcha powder, salt, and baking powder, and mix until a thick dough forms.½ cup butter, ⅔ cup sugar, 2 egg yolks, ⅓ cup milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup cake flour or all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoon matcha powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Using a butter knife, gently spread a layer of the butter mixture over the tops of each Hawaiian roll. Use a sharp knife to make diagonal cross-hatch marks on the tops.12 pieces Hawaiian rolls
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (190°C) for a few minutes. Gently brush each roll with egg wash. Place the rolls in the air fryer, leaving enough space between them for even air circulation. Air fry for 6–9 minutes, or until the tops are lightly brown and crispy. Serve warm and enjoy!1 egg
Leave a Reply