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Delicious Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns Made From Scratch

These buns are soft, pillowy, and filled with a luscious cream cheese and garlic mixture that offers a delightful contrast in taste and texture.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side
Cuisine Korean
Servings 12 servings

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure and texture.
  • 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast Essential for fermentation.
  • 3 tablespoons Sugar Feeds the yeast and enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
  • 1 cup Warm Milk Adds moisture and creaminess.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness and flavor.

Filling Ingredients

  • 4-5 cloves Minced Garlic Imparts robust flavor.
  • 8 ounces Softened Cream Cheese Creates a smooth, rich center.
  • 2-3 stalks Green Onions Adds fresh, oniony flavor.
  • 1 beaten egg Egg Wash Gives a golden color when baked.

Instructions
 

  • Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1 cup of warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
  • Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Add 4 tablespoons of melted butter and combine until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour.
  • Prepare the filling by mixing 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 4-5 cloves of minced garlic and chopped green onions.
  • After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each into a ball.
  • Flatten each dough ball, place a tablespoon of filling in the center, fold over, and seal. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Cover the buns with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Brush the tops with the egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  • Let the buns cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

For variations, consider adding red pepper flakes for spice or using different cheeses.
Keyword Baking, Comfort Food