For The Rolls:
- In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a microwave safe container whisk together the water and milk. Heat the liquids in the microwave to 95℉ / 35℃. Remove from the microwave and whisk in the active yeast followed by 1 egg until the mixture is homogeneous.
- Fit the mixer with the dough hook attachment and begin mixing on medium-low. Add your yeast mixture, and mix until a rough dough forms. Add in a splash of water if the dough looks too dry. Once the dough comes together, mix for an additional 3 minutes.
- With the mixer running, add the softened butter, about 3 tablespoons at a time. Mix until all the butter is incorporated and the dough is very smooth.
- Roll the dough on a clean work surface into a ball, place in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Generously grease the bottom and sides of a 12-inch cast iron skillet.
- Punch down your dough and divide it into 69 gram pieces, about 15 pieces total. Roll each piece into a ball and place them evenly in the greased skillet. Cover with greased plastic wrap and proof at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350℉ / 177℃.
- In a small bowl whisk together the remaining egg with 1 tsp of water until homogenous. Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the rolls reach 195℉ / 90℃ internal temperature.
- Make the Sichuan honey butter while the buns bake.
- Remove from the oven and immediately brush them with the Sichuan honey butter and sprinkle with flakey sea salt.
For The Sichuan Honey Garlic Butter:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat add all ingredients and cook until the butter is melted. Stir to evenly combine. Keep warm while the rolls bake so the butter stays melted.