Add the warm water and active dry yeast to the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the vegetable oil and sugar. Stir briefly and let the mixture stand for 5 minutes, until foamy.
2 Tablespoons Active Dry Yeast, 1 Cup Plus 2 Tablespoons Warm Water, ⅓ Cup Vegetable Oil, ¼ Cup Granulated Sugar
Add the beaten egg, salt, and 3 cups of flour. Using the dough hook, knead on medium-low speed for 3 to 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it is still too sticky, add the remaining flour a tablespoon at a time until the dough is soft and workable.
1 Large Egg, 1 Teaspoon Fine Salt, 3 to 3 ½ Cups All-Purpose Flour
Transfer the dough to a clean work surface. Divide it into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball. There is no need for a traditional first rise.
Arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Cover loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let rest for 10 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 425°F.
Whisk the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the rested buns with the egg wash, then sprinkle generously with sesame seeds.
Flour: Begin with 3 cups of flour and add additional flour only as needed. Avoid adding too much, as this can make the buns dense.By hand: If you don't have a stand mixer, knead the dough by hand for approximately 5 to 7 minutes.Toppings: Sesame seeds can be replaced with poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning.Storage: Store cooled buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.