Baked Cheese Buns are soft, fluffy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delicious snack on their own. These buns are easy to make, and the cheesy aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake, making it hard to resist digging in right away. Enjoy these buns fresh out of the oven for a truly comforting treat!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)
- ¼ cup warm water
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For Topping:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
- ¼ cup shredded cheese for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, water, melted butter, and egg.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder (if using). Set aside.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece of dough into a small circle and place 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese filling in the center.
- Pull the edges of the dough up around the cheese and pinch to seal, forming a ball. Place each ball seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Buns
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with dried herbs and additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the buns from the oven and brush them with a little more melted butter for extra flavor.
- Serve the Baked Cheese Buns warm. They are perfect as a side dish or a delicious snack.
Cooking Notes
- Cheese Choice: You can use any cheese you like for the filling. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both works well. Gouda or pepper jack also adds a unique flavor.
- Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until it is easier to handle. The dough should be soft but not overly sticky.
Variations
1. Garlic Herb Cheese Buns
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the cheese filling along with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fragrant, herby flavor.
2. Spicy Cheese Buns
Mix in ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the cheese filling for a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the soft buns.
3. Bacon and Cheese Buns
Add ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the cheese filling for an extra savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
4. Cream Cheese and Cheddar Buns
Mix 4 oz of cream cheese with 1 cup of shredded cheddar for a rich, creamy filling that melts beautifully inside the buns.
5. Onion Cheese Buns
Add ¼ cup of finely chopped green onions or caramelized onions to the cheese mixture for a burst of onion flavor that complements the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Baked Cheese Buns ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the buns ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate the buns before the second rise, then let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
Q: How do I store leftover buns?
Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Q: Can I freeze the buns?
Yes, you can freeze the buns once they’ve cooled completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for up to half of the all-purpose flour for a heartier bun. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will make the buns denser.
Q: Can I add other fillings?
Absolutely! You can add pepperoni, sun-dried tomatoes, or even spinach to the cheese filling for a fun twist.
These Baked Cheese Buns are soft, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a side for dinner, their fluffy texture and cheesy filling make them irresistible. Customize them with your favorite herbs, spices, or add-ins, and enjoy these delicious buns at any time of day!
