Bun Maska Recipe (Irani Maska Bun)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy, quick, and comforting. It brings the charm of old Irani cafés into your kitchen with minimal ingredients and effort. The combination of a pillowy bun and rich butter is timeless. Whether you’re dipping it into chai or enjoying it as-is, Bun Maska is a delightful and cozy experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Soft dinner rolls or milk buns
• Unsalted or salted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar or granulated sugar (optional)
• Fresh cream or malai (optional)
• Chai (for serving, optional)

Directions

1. Slice the bun horizontally without cutting all the way through—it should open like a book.
2. Generously spread softened butter on the inside of the bun.
3. Optionally, sprinkle a little sugar over the butter for a sweet version.
4. If desired, add a layer of fresh cream or malai for extra richness.
5. Close the bun gently and press slightly so it holds together.
6. Serve immediately with hot chai for the authentic Irani café experience.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people (adjust as needed).
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: None
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Sweet Bun Maska: Add a bit of sugar to the butter or use condensed milk for a sweeter touch.
• Creamy Bun Maska: Add a layer of fresh cream or whipped cream inside the bun.
• Toasted Version: Lightly toast the bun halves on a pan before spreading butter for a warm, crispy edge.
• Stuffed Bun Maska: Add a thin slice of cheese or a smear of jam for a fusion twist.
• Masala Chai Pairing: Serve with masala chai to enhance the traditional flavor experience.

Storage/Reheating

Bun Maska is best enjoyed fresh, immediately after preparing. However, if you need to prepare in advance, store the buttered buns in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 day. To reheat, gently warm them in a toaster oven or skillet for a minute or two—just enough to soften without melting all the butter.

FAQs

What kind of buns should I use?

Use soft, slightly sweet milk buns or dinner rolls that are fresh and fluffy.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, salted butter adds a delicious contrast, especially when paired with sweet chai.

Is sugar necessary in Bun Maska?

Sugar is optional and mostly used in the sweet version. The classic version usually skips it.

Can I toast the buns?

Yes, lightly toasting the bun adds a warm crunch and enhances the flavor.

What is malai, and do I need it?

Malai is fresh cream collected from boiled milk. It adds richness but is optional.

How is Bun Maska different from regular buttered buns?

Bun Maska is usually served with chai in Irani cafés, with extra-soft buns and a generous butter spread.

Can I use homemade buns?

Absolutely. Freshly baked milk buns or pav buns make this treat even better.

What’s the best drink to serve with Bun Maska?

Traditional Irani-style chai or masala chai pairs perfectly with Bun Maska.

Is Bun Maska a breakfast or snack?

It can be enjoyed as both—a quick breakfast or a comforting evening snack.

Can I make a vegan version?

Yes, use plant-based buns and vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Bun Maska is a simple yet soul-satisfying treat that captures the essence of Irani café culture. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, it’s the perfect go-to for a quick indulgence. Pair it with a hot cup of chai, and you’ll have a cozy moment that feels like a warm hug.

Bun Maska Recipe (Irani Maska Bun)

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Bun Maska is a classic Irani café snack made with soft milk buns slathered in butter, sometimes sweetened with sugar or enriched with fresh cream. It’s best enjoyed with a cup of hot chai for a nostalgic, comforting treat.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 soft dinner rolls or milk buns
• 2–3 tbsp unsalted or salted butter (softened)
• 1 tsp powdered or granulated sugar (optional)
• 1–2 tbsp fresh cream or malai (optional)
• Chai, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Slice each bun horizontally without cutting all the way through, so it opens like a book.
2. Generously spread softened butter on the inside of the bun.
3. Optionally, sprinkle a little sugar over the butter for a sweet touch.
4. Add a layer of fresh cream or malai if desired for extra richness.
5. Close the bun gently and press slightly to hold it together.
6. Serve immediately with a hot cup of chai.

Notes

• Use soft, fresh milk buns for the best texture.
• Salted butter adds flavor contrast, especially with sweet chai.
• Bun Maska is best enjoyed fresh and warm.
• Toasting the bun adds a warm crunch if preferred.
• Malai or whipped cream is optional for a richer version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bun
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg