Delicious Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns with a Spicy Twist

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

When I first laid eyes on the delicate, fluffy bao buns, I never imagined they would transform a classic prawn cocktail into a delightful Asian adventure. As I took my first bite, the sweet, tender prawns wrapped in a zesty, spicy sauce danced with the crisp freshness of cool lettuce, igniting my taste buds with excitement. In a world filled with takeout and fast food, these homemade Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns are a breath of fresh air, inviting you to savor each moment in your kitchen while allowing your creativity to shine.

What makes these bao buns even more enticing is their versatility perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or even meal prep for the busy week ahead. With just the right amount of tang and spice, plus that irresistible cloud-like texture that melts in your mouth, you ll soon find these fluffy delights becoming a family favorite. Ready to elevate your seafood game? Let s dive into this unforgettable recipe!

Why will you love Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns?

Delightful Twist: This recipe puts a playful spin on the classic prawn cocktail, transforming it into a fun, handheld bao bun experience.
Cloud-like Texture: Each bao is light and airy, making them a joy to bite into.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy cocktail sauce and sweet prawns creates an inviting allure.
Meal Prep Friendly: These buns freeze wonderfully, perfect for busy days when you crave homemade goodness.
Customization Possibilities: Easily switch up proteins or add toppings for a unique flair!

Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns Ingredients

Get ready to whip up these delightful, fluffy bao buns!

For the Prawn Filling

• Small Cooked & Peeled Prawns A sweet and tender main protein; frozen works great if fresh isn t available.
• Iceberg Lettuce Adds an irresistible crunch and refreshing flavor; romaine is a perfect substitute if you prefer.
• Coriander Sprigs Enhances the dish with fresh herbal notes; feel free to omit if you re not a fan.
• Crispy Fried Shallots Provides delightful texture and richness; swap them out for fried garlic for a different twist.

For the Bao Buns

• All-Purpose Plain Flour (360g) The key ingredient for structure; opt for a gluten-free flour to make these Bao Buns gluten-free!
• Baking Powder (4g) Helps achieve that fluffy rise; skipping this is not recommended.
• Instant Dry Yeast (5g) Crucial for that airy bounce; fresh yeast can be used as a substitute if available.
• White Sugar (35g) Adds a hint of sweetness and aids yeast activation; you can reduce it for less sweetness if desired.
• Vegetable Oil (35g + extra for greasing) Keeps the buns moist; any neutral oil will work if you don t have vegetable oil.
• Warm Water (180g) Hydrates the dough effectively; be sure it s warm enough to activate the yeast without being too hot.
• Milk (20ml) Brings richness to the dough; feel free to use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.

For the Spicy Cocktail Sauce

• Kewpie Mayonnaise ( ½ cup) The creamy base of the sauce; regular mayonnaise serves as a suitable alternative.
• Tomato Sauce (2 tbsp) Adds a tangy kick; ketchup is a quick substitute if needed.
• Sriracha Chilli Sauce (1 tbsp) Provides just the right amount of heat; adjust to your liking or try a different hot sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp) Adds depth and complexity to the flavor; can be skipped if you prefer a milder taste.
• Lime Juice (2 tbsp) Brightens the sauce wonderfully; lemon juice can work if lime isn t on hand.

Dive into the joy of making Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns at home, and embrace the delicious flavors waiting for you!

How to Make Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, yeast, and sugar. This will form the base of your delicious bao buns.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable oil, warm water, and milk. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in this mixture.
3. Knead the Dough: Mix until a dough forms. Then, knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it s smooth and elastic, inviting you to continue your cooking adventure.
4. Let It Rise: Cover your dough with a damp cloth and place it in a warm spot to rise for 90 minutes, or until it s doubled in size watching this transformation is part of the magic!
5. Shape the Bao Buns: After punching down the dough, divide it into small rounds and shape each one on squares of baking paper to keep them fluffy and light.
6. Second Rise: Allow the shaped buns to rise for an additional 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that cloud-like texture you ll adore.
7. Steam the Buns: Place the buns in a bamboo steamer over boiling water and steam for about 12 minutes, or until they are fluffy and slightly shiny.
8. Prepare the Sauce: While the buns are steaming, mix the Kewpie mayonnaise, tomato sauce, Sriracha, Worcestershire sauce, and lime juice in a bowl until well combined. This spicy sauce will elevate your bun game!
9. Assemble Your Bao Buns: Slice each bun horizontally, spread a generous layer of spicy sauce, then add the crispy lettuce, sweet prawns, crispy shallots, and fresh coriander.

Optional: Drizzle extra spicy sauce on top for an extra kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns

Room Temperature: Store cooked bao buns in an airtight container for up to 1 day to maintain their softness; enjoy them fresh for the best taste.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the bao buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Re-steam them before serving to bring back the fluffy texture.

Freezer: To freeze, place cooled bao buns in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month perfect for meal prep!

Reheating: For the best results, re-steam frozen bao buns for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. Enjoy them warm with your spicy cocktail sauce!

Prawn Cocktail Variations

Feel free to have fun and let your creativity shine while making this recipe uniquely yours!

• Chicken Swap: Replace prawns with cooked chicken for a hearty alternative that still packs flavor.
• Tofu Delight: Use firm tofu instead of prawns for a delightful vegetarian twist; marinate for added flavor.
• Vegetable Medley: Mix in pickled carrots, radishes, or cucumbers for a refreshing crunch to complement the prawns.
• Spicy Kick: Experiment with different hot sauces such as sambal oelek or harissa to find your ideal heat level.
• Herb Infusion: Instead of coriander, try slicing in some fresh basil or mint for a fragrant herb twist.
• Cheesy Option: Add a slice of cheese inside the bao before steaming for a creamy surprise in every bite.
• Whole Grain Buns: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat or spelt flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.
• Citrus Zing: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into your spicy cocktail sauce for a bright, zesty explosion of flavor.

There s a world of flavors just waiting for you to uncover!

What to Serve with Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns?

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the fluffy, spicy, and fresh flavors of the baos.

• Tangy Slaw: A crisp slaw made with cabbage and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich prawns.
• Chili Garlic Edamame: These bite-sized, lightly salted edamame, tossed with chili and garlic, make for a delightful appetizer with a spicy kick.
• Coconut Rice: The softness of coconut rice beautifully contrasts the bao, creating a savory-sweet duet that takes your meal to the next level.
• Mango Salsa: Bright, tropical mango salsa with chunks of avocado and lime brings a fresh, fruity element that pairs delightfully with the prawns.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy, filled delights add an extra layer of texture and flavors, complementing the bao buns cloudlike softness.
• Hot Sake or Beer: A warm glass of sake or a refreshing beer enhances the experience, inviting your taste buds to celebrate the meal fully.
• Green Tea Ice Cream: End your dinner on a sweet note with creamy green tea ice cream, offering a smooth finish to the spicy adventure of the bao.
• Fruit-infused Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink with hints of lemon or cucumber cleanses the palate and adds a lightness to your dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to save precious time during busy weeknights. You can prepare the bao dough up to 24 hours in advance simply mix the dry ingredients and then refrigerate the mixed dough. When you re ready to enjoy, allow it to come to room temperature before kneading and following the remaining steps. The spicy cocktail sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully. To maintain quality, re-steam the buns briefly just before serving to restore their fluffy texture, creating that perfect restaurant-quality dish at your fingertips!

Expert Tips for Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns

Right Temperature: Ensure the water for the dough is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. Too hot could kill it!

Rest & Rise: Allow the buns to rest adequately after steaming; this helps maintain their airy texture and fluffy appearance.

Cut with Care: Use a serrated knife for slicing the bao buns; it minimizes squishing and preserves their delightful shape.

Don t Rush: Give your dough the full 90 minutes to rise this is crucial for creating those light and fluffy prawn cocktail bao buns.

Flavor Flexibility: Feel free to customize the spicy cocktail sauce ingredients according to your taste; it s your adventure in flavors!

Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting prawns?
Absolutely! When choosing prawns, look for those that are firm and smell fresh, with a slight sea aroma. If using frozen prawns, ensure they are properly thawed and look glossy without any dark spots all over. Fresh, vibrant prawns will give you the best flavor!

How can I store leftover bao buns?
Very! To store cooked bao buns, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Remember to re-steam them before serving to restore their fluffy texture.

Can I freeze the bao buns?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, let the bao buns cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, re-steam them for about 10-12 minutes until heated through; it s like they were just made!

What if my dough doesn t rise?
Oh no! If your dough doesn t rise, it might be due to using water that was too hot or cold, which can kill the yeast or prevent activation. Always check your yeast s expiration date before using it. Try to find a warm spot for rising, like inside an unheated oven or near a heater it can make a big difference!

Are these bao buns suitable for gluten-free diets?
Certainly! By using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, these Prawn Cocktail Bao Buns can cater to gluten-free diets. Just make sure your other ingredients, like sauces, are also gluten-free!

Can I make the spicy cocktail sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often whip up the spicy cocktail sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will marry beautifully overnight, making it an even tastier addition to your bao buns!