Toasting hamburger or hot dog buns is a critical task, as serving a hot, juicy hamburger or frankfurter on a cold, hard bun takes the pleasure out of dinner very quickly. Purchase fresh hamburger buns that are soft, but sturdy and firm enough so the bun won't fall apart with the addition of a hamburger or frankfurter. Toast the bun so the outside is golden brown, but the interior is tender. Although onion rolls and other seasoned rolls are good, don't use rolls with such intense flavor that they compete with the flavor of the meat.
Grill or Griddle
Place a small amount of butter in a cup or small bowl. Place the butter in the microwave for a few seconds to soften. Alternatively, melt the butter in a small saucepan on the stove. You can also make a healthier mixture of half melted butter and half canola or olive oil.
Spread the melted butter evenly on the cut side of the buns, using a pastry brush.
Place the buns, butter side down, directly on a grill or griddle. Leave the buns only until they're golden brown -- about 10 seconds.
Baking Sheet
Melt a small amount of butter in a saucepan. Alternatively, place the butter in a microwave-safe cup or bowl, then melt the butter in your microwave oven.
Place the buns in a baking pan, with the cut sides facing up.
Use your pastry brush to spread the melted butter evenly on the cut side of the buns.
Pre-heat the broiler in your oven, then place the buns 3 to 4 inches under the broiler. Broil the buns for bout 30 seconds, or until they are light golden brown. Watch carefully, as bread scorches quickly under the broiler.