For Homemade Dough:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Stir gently to combine. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy. This step is crucial as it ensures that the yeast is alive and active, which will lead to a successful rise for your dough. The foamy appearance indicates that the yeast is consuming the sugar and producing carbon dioxide, the key to creating light and airy bread.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and remaining sugar (the ¼ cup minus the teaspoon used for the yeast). Whisking these ingredients ensures that they are evenly distributed, preventing pockets of saltiness or sweetness in your final product. This is especially important when using a stand mixer, as the mixing process can sometimes leave some areas of the dough less incorporated than others.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the milk and yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook (or by hand), mix on low speed until the ingredients start to come together. This is the initial stage of dough formation, where the flour starts to absorb the liquid and form a shaggy dough. Be patient at this stage, as it may take a few minutes for the ingredients to fully incorporate.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Butter

Slowly add the egg and melted (and cooled) butter to the dough. Continue mixing on low speed until the dough starts to become smoother. The egg adds richness and structure to the dough, while the butter contributes to its tenderness and flavor. Make sure the butter is cooled slightly to avoid cooking the egg or hindering the yeast activity.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes using the dough hook. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky (but not sticky). Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which is essential for creating a bread with good structure and chew.

Step 6: First Rise

Place the dough in a large bowl that has been lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Turn the dough to coat it lightly with the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (or a clean kitchen towel) and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 ½ - 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The warmth encourages the yeast to ferment and produce carbon dioxide, causing the dough to rise.

Step 7: Shape the Bunny Buns

Once the dough has doubled in size, gently deflate it. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. To ensure even sizes, you can first cut the dough in half, then cut each half in half again, and so on. This will give you 4 pieces. Then cut each of those pieces into thirds, for a total of 12 pieces.

Step 8: Form the Bunny Shape

Roll out each of the 12 dough pieces into a long rope, approximately 10 inches in length. An oiled surface will help prevent the dough from sticking. Bring the two ends of the rope up to form a "U" shape. Leaving a small circle at the bottom of the U, overlap the ends once, then twist them together again, leaving the ends pinched to resemble bunny ears. Repeat this process with 6 of the dough ropes, creating 6 bunny shapes.

Step 9: Add the Tails

Cut the remaining 6 pieces of dough into smaller pieces to form the bunny tails. Roll each small piece into a ball. Attach a dough ball to the back of each bunny shape, pressing it gently to secure it.

Step 10: Second Rise

Place the shaped bunny buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 20-30 minutes. This second rise allows the buns to become even lighter and fluffier.

Step 11: Bake the Bunny Buns

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bunny buns for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning.

Step 12: Brush with Butter and Enjoy!

Remove the bunny buns from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter. This will give them a beautiful sheen and add a delicious richness to the flavor. Let them cool slightly before serving.

For Pre-Made Dough:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Open the cans of refrigerated bread dough and carefully remove the dough.

Step 2: Shape the Bunny Buns

Follow steps 7-9 from the "For Homemade Dough" instructions to shape the bunny buns.

Step 3: Bake the Bunny Buns

Place the shaped bunny buns on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Step 4: Add Sweetness (Optional)

Remove the bunny buns from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter. If desired, sprinkle them with a pinch of granulated sugar for a touch of added sweetness. Let them cool slightly before serving.