Sweet Cheese Buns

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked Sweet Cheese Buns wafting through the house. Growing up, I remember my grandmother making these delightful little treats, and I would eagerly await the moment they emerged from the oven, golden brown and warm. Each bite was a soft and fluffy cloud filled with a rich cheese mixture that left me craving more. Making Sweet Cheese Buns is not just about the final product; it’s about the memories created and the love shared over a simple meal. Whether served at family gatherings or enjoyed on a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, these buns bring joy and a sense of togetherness to any table. I invite you to join me in this culinary adventure that promises to bring warmth to your heart and a delicious surprise to your palate.

Everything You Need for Sweet Cheese Buns

Creating Sweet Cheese Buns begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor, and understanding these key players can elevate your baking game. Embrace the magic of these ingredients as they come together to create something beautiful and delicious.

• All-Purpose Flour (6 cups): The base of our buns, providing structure and that delightful fluffy texture.
• Fresh Yeast (2 ounces, or 1 package of active dry yeast): The leavening agent that helps the buns rise, ensuring they’re light and airy.
• Water (1 cup, lukewarm): Activates the yeast and helps to bind the ingredients together.
• Vegetable Oil (1 cup): Adds moisture and richness to the dough, contributing to its overall flavor.
• Sugar (1 cup, divided): Not only sweetens the buns but also feeds the yeast for a great rise.
• Large Eggs (4, divided): Provide structure, moisture, and richness; they also contribute to that beautiful golden color.
• Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon): Adds a refreshing brightness and subtle zing to the filling.
• Ricotta Cheese (2 cups): The star of the show, offering creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Golden Raisins (¾ cup): Sweet little bursts of flavor that complement the cheese perfectly.

Step by Step Instructions for Sweet Cheese Buns

Making Sweet Cheese Buns is a journey filled with delightful aromas and tasty rewards. Follow my detailed steps, and you’ll find yourself creating something truly special. Let’s dive in!

1. Dissolve Yeast: In a big bowl, add the flour and form a well in the middle. Crumble up the fresh yeast and add it in the well. Pour the water over the yeast and stir it up until the yeast dissolves. If you’re using active yeast, activate it in a bowl with the lukewarm water and a teaspoon of the sugar.

2. Mix Dough: Add the vegetable oil, ½ cup of the sugar, 2 eggs, and half the lemon zest to the well. Using your hands, mix everything together, continuing to knead the dough for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer on medium-low until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

3. Let Rise: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.

4. Make Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, golden raisins, the remaining ½ cup of sugar, 1 egg, and the remaining lemon zest. Keep the cheese mixture in the fridge while waiting for the dough to rise.

5. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the buns are assembled.

6. Roll and Cut Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out to a long rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Use a pastry cutter to slice it into squares measuring 3 inches by 3 inches. Repeat with any remaining dough.

7. Roll It Out: Take each square and roll it out to about 6 inches square. It will be thin, but it will rise beautifully in the oven.

8. Assemble: Place 2 teaspoons of the cheese mixture in the center of each square. Fold over the corners to the center and pinch to seal. Repeat for all squares, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to prevent them from opening during baking.

9. Egg Wash: Beat the remaining egg and brush the mixture over the tops of the buns. Let them sit for another 10 minutes to rise slightly.

10. Bake: Bake the buns in your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and delightful.

11. Finish and Serve: Allow them to cool on wire racks, and if desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Every recipe can benefit from a few helpful tips. Here’s a collection of insights that can help you master the art of making Sweet Cheese Buns.

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Freezing: These Sweet Cheese Buns can be frozen for up to one month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve them warm with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Customization: Feel free to experiment with the cheese filling. Try adding some herbs or spices for a savory twist.
• Egg Wash Alternatives: If you prefer, you can brush the buns with milk or cream instead of an egg wash for a different finish.
• Serving Suggestions: These buns are perfect for brunch, tea time, or as a sweet snack anytime of the day.

How to Serve Sweet Cheese Buns

When it comes to serving Sweet Cheese Buns, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your serving experience:

• Brunch Delight: Serve warm with a side of mixed berries and whipped cream for a decadent brunch spread.
• Accompaniment to Coffee: Pair these buns with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• After Dinner Treat: They make a lovely dessert option after a light meal, especially when served warm.
• Picnic Favorite: Pack them for a picnic along with fresh fruits and pastries to create a delightful spread.
• Make Ahead: Prepare them in advance for gatherings, as they can be easily reheated in the oven before serving.
• Festive Occasions: These buns are a hit during holidays or family gatherings, bringing warmth and smiles all around!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Sweet Cheese Buns embody comfort and love, bringing a touch of sweetness to your gatherings and daily moments. Whether enjoyed on their own or with a cup of coffee, they are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. I encourage you to try making these buns at home; the process is enjoyable, and the results are absolutely worth it. Share them with friends and family, and create lovely memories around the table.

Sweet Cheese Buns

The ultimate comfort food, Sweet Cheese Buns are light, fluffy, and filled with a creamy cheese mixture. Ideal for brunch, dessert, or a snack, these delightful buns are sure to satisfy your cravings. Make them today and share the joy with your loved ones!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Eastern European

Servings 24 pastries

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• KitchenAid Artisan 5 Quart Stand Mixer
• Classic Wooden Rolling Pin
• Aluminum Baking Sheet (2 pack)

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 ounces Fresh Yeast (or 1 package of active dry yeast)
• 1 cup Water (lukewarm)
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil
• 1 cup Sugar (granulated, divided)
• 4 large Eggs (at room temperature, divided)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest
• 2 cups Ricotta Cheese
• ¾ cup Golden Raisins

Instructions

 

• Dissolve Yeast: In a big bowl, add the flour and form a well in the middle. Crumble up the fresh yeast and add it in the well. Pour the water over the yeast and stir it up until the yeast dissolves. If you're using active yeast, activate it in a bowl with the lukewarm water and a teaspoon of the sugar.
• Mix Dough: Add the vegetable oil, ½ cup of the sugar, 2 eggs, and half the lemon zest to the well. Using your hands, mix everything together, continuing to knead the dough for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer on medium-low until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
• Let Rise: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.
• Make Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, golden raisins, the remaining ½ cup of sugar, 1 egg, and the remaining lemon zest. Keep the cheese mixture in the fridge while waiting for the dough to rise.
• Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready when the buns are assembled.
• Roll and Cut Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out to a long rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Use a pastry cutter to slice it into squares measuring 3 inches by 3 inches. Repeat with any remaining dough.
• Roll It Out: Take each square and roll it out to about 6 inches square. It will be thin, but it will rise beautifully in the oven.
• Assemble: Place 2 teaspoons of the cheese mixture in the center of each square. Fold over the corners to the center and pinch to seal. Repeat for all squares, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to prevent them from opening during baking.
• Egg Wash: Beat the remaining egg and brush the mixture over the tops of the buns. Let them sit for another 10 minutes to rise slightly.
• Bake: Bake the buns in your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and delightful.
• Finish and Serve: Allow them to cool on wire racks, and if desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

• Check Your Yeast: Always ensure your yeast is fresh and active before starting. If it doesn’t foam when activated, it’s best to get new yeast.
• Knead Well: Kneading the dough well develops gluten, which gives the buns structure. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
• Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place. If your kitchen is cold, consider preheating the oven for a minute, then turning it off and placing the dough inside.
• Sealing the Buns: Make sure to pinch the seams well when assembling to prevent the cheese filling from leaking out during baking.
• Cooling: Let the buns cool completely on wire racks to avoid sogginess.

Keyword Eastern European Buns, Homemade Sweet Buns, Ricotta Cheese Buns, Sweet Cheese Buns