These soft and fluffy buns are perfect for any occasion, with a savory cheese filling that melts in your mouth. They are easy to prepare and make a delightful addition to breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rest Time: 50-60 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: Makes approximately 12 buns
Ingredients:
- Wheat Flour: 400-450g (3.5 cups)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Yeast: 13g (½ oz)
- Warm Water: 125 ml (½ cup)
- Warm Milk: 125 ml (½ cup)
- Olive Oil: 70 ml (7 tablespoons)
- Salt: 5-6g (½ teaspoon)
- Butter: 90g (3 oz), softened
- Cheese for Filling: 200g (1 cup), grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, and olive oil. Mix until a dough starts to form.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 50-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, grate the cheese and set it aside.
- Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion, place a spoonful of cheese in the center, and seal the edges to form a ball.
- Second Rise: Place the filled buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart. Cover with a towel and let them rise for 15-20 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the buns with softened butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best experience.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- Pair with soup or salad for a light and satisfying meal.
- Slice and use as sandwich buns with additional fillings.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or butter for extra indulgence.
- Perfect as an on-the-go breakfast or snack.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, mix herbs or garlic powder into the cheese filling.
- Make sure the water and milk are warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Brush the buns with melted butter immediately after baking for a shiny and soft crust.
- Use any cheese you prefer, or mix cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium for strong bones.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Wheat Flour: A good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten and dairy.
- Not suitable for vegan diets.
Nutritional Facts (Per Bun):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap each bun individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before enjoying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The buns are soft, fluffy, and filled with gooey, melted cheese.
- Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make it beginner-friendly.
- Versatile recipe, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and herbs.
- A comforting and satisfying treat for any occasion.
Conclusion:
These Soft Cheese-Filled Buns are the perfect combination of fluffy dough and creamy cheese, making them an irresistible treat. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated later, they are guaranteed to please the whole family. Try this recipe and enjoy the homemade goodness of these delightful buns!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use instant yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, use 1 teaspoon of instant yeast as a substitute.
- What type of cheese works best for this recipe? Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses with good melting properties are ideal.
- Can I make these buns dairy-free? Yes, use plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Can I add herbs or spices to the dough? Absolutely! Mix in dried herbs like oregano or basil for added flavor.
- How can I ensure the buns stay soft? Cover them with a clean towel while cooling to retain moisture.
- Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, prepare the dough, let it rise, and store it in the fridge overnight. Shape and bake the next day.
- What’s the best way to reheat the buns? Warm them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, but the texture may be denser. Use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a softer result.
- Can I freeze unbaked buns? Yes, freeze the shaped buns and bake them directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out? Ensure the edges are sealed tightly when shaping the buns