Description
These irresistible baked cheese buns are soft, fluffy rolls filled with a melty blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda cheeses. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside soups and salads, these homemade rolls combine a tender yeast dough with a savory cheesy center and a golden, buttery crust for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a mix)
Topping
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
- Optional: garlic powder, parsley, sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready for use.
- Mix the Dough: To the foamy yeast mixture, add the softened butter, large egg, salt, and 2 cups of the flour. Stir to combine, then gradually incorporate the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and knead on medium speed for 5–6 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and set aside in a warm spot. Allow the dough to rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape and Fill: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small circle, place about a tablespoon of shredded cheese in the center, fold the dough around the cheese, pinch to seal the edges, and gently roll into a ball. Place each bun seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped buns loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 25–30 minutes until puffed.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each bun generously with melted butter and optionally sprinkle extra cheese or seasonings such as garlic powder, parsley, or sesame seeds. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the buns from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm alone, with butter, or alongside soups and salads for a comforting meal or snack.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm but not hot (around 110°F/43°C) to properly activate yeast without killing it.
- You can use any combination of cheeses you prefer for the filling.
- For a softer crust, brush buns with melted butter immediately after baking as well.
- Optional toppings like garlic powder, parsley, or sesame seeds add extra flavor and texture.
- These buns are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for longer.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to regain softness and melty cheese.
