Festive Birthday Bao Buns with Sweet Filling

1.In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

2.In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together.

3.Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.

4.Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5.Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

6.Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead it briefly. Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces.

7.Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it into a circle about 4 inches in diameter.

8.Place a tablespoon of red bean paste and a few pieces of chopped fruit in the center of each circle.

9.Gather the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a bun.

10.Place the buns seam-side down on small squares of parchment paper.

11.Arrange the buns in a steamer basket, leaving space between them for expansion.

12.Cover the steamer and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.

13.While the buns are rising, prepare a pot of boiling water for steaming.

14.Once the buns have risen, steam them over boiling water for about 15 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.

15.Remove the buns from the steamer and let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and sesame seeds.