Poki Recipe: How to Bake Nigerian Bread Buns in Minutes

July 30, 2025 Odiraa

Poki Recipe: How to Bake Nigerian Bread Buns in Minutes

Craving a crunchy outside, soft inside snack that tastes like childhood?

Nigerian Bread Buns, fondly called poki, answer that craving and come together in mere minutes, so you never have to stand in a street queue again.

This guide shows you exactly how to do buns at home and even hints at how to bake Nigerian bread if you prefer an oven finish.

How to do Buns: Make a Poki Recipe in Minutes

Now, let’s walk you through the simple steps of this poki recipe so you can confidently make it at home and skip those roadside purchases.

Ingredients You Need for this Nigerian Baking

750g Flour (approx. 6 leveled cups)
100g Sugar
3 teaspoons Baking Powder
1½ teaspoons Salt
250ml Water
2 Medium Eggs
50ml Cooking Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, sift the flour into a dry bowl and set aside.
In another bowl, break the eggs.
Add the cooking oil and mix until well combined.
Next, add sugar and salt, then stir to combine.
Gradually add some water and mix.
Pour in the sifted flour and also sift in the baking powder. Mix thoroughly.
Slowly incorporate the remaining water, adding it, adding it bit by bit and and mixing at each addition to avoid lumps.
Mix until you form a soft dough.
Transfer to a clean surface and knead until smooth, soft, and elastic.

Cut the dough into sections, flatten, and roll into long ropes.
Lightly flatten each rope with a rolling pin and cut into equal bread bun shapes.
Heat oil in a pan. Add the dough and fry.
Flip each bun when golden brown on one side, then repeat for the other side.
And just like that, your Nigerian Bread Buns are ready!

How to Serve

Serve hot or warm with any drink of your choice—tea, zobo, or soft drinks. This snack is perfect for school lunchboxes, picnics, or quick breakfasts.

Can You Bake Nigerian Bread Buns?

Absolutely! While traditionally fried, you can bake this dough in a preheated oven for a healthier version.

Simply place on a lined tray and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

FAQ Section on Poki Recipe

What’s the difference between bread rolls and bread buns?
Bread rolls are typically softer, fluffier, and baked closely together, while bread buns (like poki) are smaller, fried, and have a crispier crust.

Can I use yeast instead of baking powder?
Yes, simply replace the baking powder with yeast, allow the dough to rise, and continue with the same process. This variation gives it a fluffier texture.