Pani Popo - Samoan Sweet Coconut Buns (Vegan!)

Step 1

In a bowl, combine lukewarm water, sugar, yeast, and set aside for about 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Add coconut milk, melted coconut oil, and the yeast mixture. Mix the ingredients together until it comes together, and take it out onto a clean surface.

Step 3

Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it forms a smooth ball. Put the dough in a large bowl greased with coconut oil, cover, and let it rise about an hour until it's doubled in size.

Step 4

Gently deflate the dough in the bowl and take it out onto your work surface. Separate the dough into 12 equal balls. Place the balls in a 9x13 inch pan greased with coconut oil, cover, and let it rise again for about 45 minutes.

Step 5

While the buns are rising, make the sweet coconut sauce. In a small bowl, combine coconut milk and sugar. Set aside.

Step 6

Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C.

Step 7

Pour about ⅔ of the sweet coconut sauce over the buns and bake for about 30 minutes.

Step 8

Once the buns come out of the oven, pour the rest of the coconut milk mixture over the top.