To Turn Any McDonald's Bun Into A Cloud, Ask For This Customization

You probably think you've heard every McDonald's hack by now. But here's one most people don't know — and it turns the bun into a soft, airy cloud. All you have to do is ask for your bun steamed. That's it. They already do this for the Filet-O-Fish, but you can ask them to steam the bun on any sandwich. It's super simple and takes about 11 seconds in their steamer, according to a former McDonald's chef. Instead of something dry or toasted, what you get is a softer, warmer, fluffier bun.

It works great on burgers like the McDouble, Spicy McChicken, or Quarter Pounder with Cheese — McDonald's best burger for the money. You name it. It makes the whole thing feel fresher somehow. The only thing is, you have to ask in person. You can't do this through the app or kiosk, and not every worker will know what you mean right away. If it's busy, maybe wait until the line dies down. But if they can do it, it's worth it. After you try it once, going back to regular buns feels kind of boring.

White Castle does it with sliders. Costco does it for hot dog buns. And it's easy to do at home without a steamer or anything fancy. The easiest way is to take a paper towel, get it damp (not soaked), wrap your bun in it, and microwave it for 20–30 seconds. Steam softens the bun without drying it out. Just be careful when you unwrap it. The steam gets really hot.

If you're pan-frying the patties, which many say is the best way to cook burgers, there's another trick. After you flip the patty, place the top bun directly on top of the meat. Place a lid over the pan and let it steam while the burger finishes cooking. It softens up fast, and you don't have to toast anything. Too much moisture dripping off the lid? Toss a clean kitchen towel over the patty and bun to trap steam without making things soggy. It's also great if your buns are a little stale. Steam brings them back to life. It's super easy, there's no cleanup, and honestly, it might be better than toasting.