Fluffy Baked Cheese Buns 🧀
Imagine biting into a pillowy soft bun and being greeted with gooey, melty cheese in the center. These Fluffy Baked Cheese Buns are the perfect blend of cozy homemade bread and indulgent cheesy goodness. Whether served warm with dinner or packed as a snack, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe blends the comfort of fresh-baked bread with the delight of a cheesy filling. Here’s why it’s one of my go-to bakes:
- The dough is soft and rises beautifully
- The cheese stays gooey and flavorful after baking
- Perfect for make-ahead snacks, school lunches, or casual dinner sides
- Customizable with different cheeses or fillings
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups grated cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
🔄 Swaps & Notes
- Cheese options: Mix in smoked gouda, pepper jack, or cream cheese for a fun twist.
- Make it herby: Add dried oregano, parsley, or chives to the dough or filling.
- Gluten-free? Use a 1:1 flour blend—though rise and texture may vary slightly.
- Brushed topping: Milk gives a soft finish; egg wash gives it shine and golden color.
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead
Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until soft and elastic.
4. First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Fill and Shape
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each, place a tablespoon of grated cheese in the center, and fold the dough around it to form a bun.
6. Second Rise
Place buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
7. Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the buns with milk or beaten egg. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
8. Cool Slightly
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, while the cheese is still melty.
✅ Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing and proper yeast activation.
- Don’t overfill with cheese—a tablespoon is just right to avoid leakage.
- Want extra flavor? Sprinkle buns with sesame seeds or grated Parmesan before baking.
- Test doneness by tapping the bottom of a bun—it should sound hollow.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve your cheese buns:
- Alongside soups like tomato basil or creamy broccoli
- With charcuterie boards or dips
- As sliders—slice and fill with ham, turkey, or grilled veggies
- With Blueberry Lemonade for a fresh drink pairing
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5–8 minutes or microwave briefly.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled buns for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
🍴 More Recipes You Will Love
If soft baked treats are your jam, don’t miss these:
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat to Bake Anytime
- These Easy Coconut Macaroons Are My Favorite 3-Ingredient Treat
- These Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies Are My Favorite Way to Bake Up Instant Joy
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
- These Easter Cookies Everyone Will Be Talking About and Asking the Recipe For
🔚 Final Thoughts
These Fluffy Baked Cheese Buns bring together the best of both worlds—soft, golden bread and irresistible melted cheese in every bite. Whether for brunch, snacks, or dinner sides, they’re a comforting favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Tried them? Let us know in the comments, and follow for more bakes that warm the kitchen and the heart.
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