Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a truly delightful treat, look no further than this Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns Recipe. These golden, fluffy buns are packed with melted cheese inside and boast a tender crumb with just the right amount of chewiness. Each bite delivers a comforting balance of rich, savory flavor and pillowy softness that makes them perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy accompaniment to soups and salads. Once you try them, these cheese buns are bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to making these buns shine. Each component plays a vital role, from the soft flour base that creates the perfect texture to the cheese that melts into pockets of gooey goodness. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe come alive!
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, elastic dough that rises beautifully.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): Essential for that light and fluffy rise that makes the buns irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the dough’s profile.
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F): Activates the yeast and gives moisture for tender crumb.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps achieve a soft texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds color and structure.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix): The star of the show, melting into pockets of creamy deliciousness.
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash): Gives the buns a beautiful golden hue when baked.
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash): Helps the egg yolk coat the buns smoothly for a shiny finish.
How to Make Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by stirring warm milk, sugar, and yeast together in a large bowl. This mixture should be left to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes until it’s frothy and alive with yeast activity. This step is crucial because it ensures your dough will rise beautifully, creating those soft, airy buns everyone loves.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Once the yeast is bubbly, add melted butter, the egg, salt, and 2 ½ cups of flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Then, gradually add more flour to achieve a dough that is soft and slightly tacky but still manageable. This balance is key for tender buns with just enough structure.
Step 3: Knead for Perfection
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten network, which traps air bubbles and gives your buns that ideal chewy texture with a tender bite.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a towel, letting it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This rest period is what transforms your dough into pillowy goodness, making it ready to hold all that luscious cheese filling.
Step 5: Shape the Buns
After punching down the risen dough, divide it into 10 to 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece gently, place a generous pinch of shredded cheese in the center, then pinch the edges together to seal the cheese inside. This technique traps the melty cheese in every bite, giving a delightful surprise as you tear into each bun.
Step 6: Second Rise and Prep for Baking
Arrange the buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let them rise again for 20 to 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with milk for the egg wash, which will give your buns that irresistible golden, shiny exterior.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash and sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if you like. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the buns are a gorgeous golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool just slightly so you can savor the soft but not scorching buns fresh from the oven.
How to Serve Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of flavor and color, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives over the buns just before serving. A light brush of melted butter right out of the oven can also add a buttery sheen that elevates these warm bites to party-worthy status.
Side Dishes
These cheese buns pair beautifully with creamy tomato soup, a crisp green salad, or even a hearty bowl of chili. Their savory richness offers a perfect contrast to fresh or tangy dishes, making your meal feel like a cozy, balanced celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, slice the buns in half and fill them with smoked ham or roasted veggies to make mini sandwiches. Arrange them on a wooden board alongside dips like garlic aioli or spicy mustard to transform them into a crowd-pleasing finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful, perfect for a quick snack or to enjoy with your next meal.
Freezing
If you want to save these buns for longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy your cheesy treat anytime you crave it.
Reheating
To bring your stored or frozen buns back to life, reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving as it can make the buns chewy or rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
While this recipe is best with all-purpose flour for its elasticity and texture, you can try a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just note the texture and rising may be different, so adjustments might be needed.
What types of cheese work best in the buns?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices because they melt well and offer rich flavor. Combining a sharper cheese like aged cheddar with a mild mozzarella creates layers of taste and gooey texture that are simply divine.
Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Absolutely! Use the dough hook attachment on low to medium speed when mixing and kneading the dough. It makes the process easier and ensures consistent kneading for great results.
Is it necessary to do two rises for the dough?
Yes, the two rises help develop depth in flavor and improve the dough’s texture. The first rise activates the yeast and produces gas bubbles, while the second rise after shaping ensures light and fluffy buns with perfect volume.
How should I store leftovers without drying them out?
Keep the buns in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Avoid leaving them exposed to air, which causes drying and toughness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sinking your teeth into warm, cheesy buns fresh from the oven, and this Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns Recipe delivers that comforting experience every time. Made with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. So, grab your apron and give these delightful buns a try—you might just find your new favorite homemade snack!
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Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 buns 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible Baked Cheese Buns are soft, golden, and packed with gooey melted cheese inside. These homemade savory buns make a perfect snack, breakfast treat, or a delightful side to soups. Made with a tender yeast dough infused with butter and milk, each bun offers a warm, cheesy center with a slightly crisp top brushed with egg wash for a beautiful finish.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
Filling and Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Make Dough: Add melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 ½ cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour a little at a time until the dough is soft and slightly tacky but manageable. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Form Buns: Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 10–12 equal portions. Flatten each piece slightly, place a generous pinch of shredded cheese in the center, then gather and pinch the edges to seal the cheese inside.
- Second Rise: Place the formed buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with a towel and allow them to rise again for 20–30 minutes.
- Prepare Egg Wash & Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon milk to create the egg wash.
- Finish & Bake: Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top for a cheesy crust. Bake the buns for 18–22 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the buns to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm.
Notes
- Use your favorite cheese or mix multiple types for a richer flavor profile.
- These buns are best served warm and can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
- Perfect as a breakfast item, snack, or served alongside soups and salads.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
