Irresistibly Cheesy Baked Cheese Buns Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of soft, pillowy bread filled with gooey, melted cheese, then this recipe is perfect for you. These baked cheese buns are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a golden-brown crust with a delightfully cheesy center. They make an excellent snack, a tasty side dish, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings. The best part? They are surprisingly easy to make at home, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Warm milk
• Sugar
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Egg
• Cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Dried herbs (such as oregano or basil)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add sugar, salt, melted butter, and a beaten egg. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine grated cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder and dried herbs for extra flavor.
4. Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Flatten each piece, place a generous amount of the cheese mixture in the center, and seal the edges tightly to form a bun shape.
5. Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them with a towel, and let them rest for about 30 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the buns with an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the cheese starts to bubble inside.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the buns cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best cheesy experience.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese filling for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheese varieties with gouda, Swiss, or provolone for a unique flavor twist.
• Herb-Infused Dough: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic touch.
• Garlic Butter Glaze: Brush the baked buns with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5 hours
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours
• Servings: 10-12 buns

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cheese buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds until heated through.
• Freezing: These buns can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is still active?

If your yeast doesn’t foam after sitting in warm milk for 5-10 minutes, it may be expired. Use fresh yeast for best results.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Simply mix it directly with the flour and skip the proofing step.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What’s the best cheese for these buns?

A mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan provides the best balance of stretchiness and flavor.

Can I make these buns without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with ¼ cup of plain yogurt or milk.

Why are my buns not rising properly?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area to rise.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I get a crispy crust?

For a crispier texture, brush the buns with melted butter and bake at a slightly higher temperature for the last few minutes.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Definitely! Cooked bacon, ham, or even seasoned ground beef can be added for extra heartiness.

How can I make these buns extra fluffy?

Let the dough rise properly and avoid over-kneading. Using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour can also help.

Conclusion

These irresistibly cheesy baked cheese buns are a must-try for any cheese lover. With their soft, fluffy texture and gooey cheese filling, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to party appetizers. Whether you enjoy them plain or customize them with your favorite flavors, they are sure to be a hit. Try making a batch today and experience the joy of homemade cheesy goodness!

Print