makes 12 buns
2 packets active dry yeast
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water (110° to 115°)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup honey
1 egg
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 cups 100% whole wheat flour
poppy seeds or sesame seeds [optional]
1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Stir in the olive oil and honey. Let stand for five minutes.
3. Add the egg, salt, and flour. Stir to form a soft dough. (Add more flour if necessary.)
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough until smooth, about five minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 12 evenly-sized balls. (If you want hamburger-sized buns, make the balls a little larger in size; your yield will be less.) Place the dough balls about 2-3" apart on the prepped baking sheet.
6. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
[7. Optional: Brush the tops of each dough ball with water and sprinkle seeds of your choice, such as poppy seeds or sesame seeds, over top of each ball.]
8. Bake for 8-12 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the baking sheet and allow to cool on a wire rack.
10. Use immediately and freeze any leftovers.