Name: Baked Cheese Buns Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487614H43M26S
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water (about 110°F); 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup milk

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If you’ve never tried Baked Cheese Buns before, you’re about to discover your newest obsession! These golden, cheesy pillows strike the perfect balance between soft, fluffy bread and gooey, savory cheese. With sharp cheddar and Parmesan tucked inside and a tender crumb that pulls apart just right, every bite is irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven for a family supper or tucking them into a lunchbox, Baked Cheese Buns deliver on flavor, comfort, and crowd-pleasing charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about Baked Cheese Buns is that the ingredients are simple pantry staples, but together they create pure magic. Here’s how each one brings its special touch to the party—don’t skip any, and feel free to customize the cheeses for your own signature flavor!

All-purpose flour (3 cups): The backbone of your buns, giving them structure and that classic, fluffy bread bite.
Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp, 1 packet): Essential for that irresistible rise—let the yeast work its bubbly magic for light, airy buns.
Warm water (1 cup, about 110°F): The perfect temperature helps activate the yeast quickly and evenly.
Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): A touch of sweetness not only feeds the yeast but also creates a rich, tender crumb.
Salt (1 tsp): Just the right amount heightens all the flavors and balances the creamy cheeses.
Unsalted butter (4 tbsp, softened): Adds luscious richness and helps make the buns ultra-soft.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts inside the buns for stretchy, flavorful bites in every mouthful.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a salty, nutty zing that perfectly complements the cheddar.
Large eggs (2): These give your dough strength, moisture, and a beautiful golden hue.
Milk (1/4 cup): For that glossy finish on top—don’t forget this final touch before baking!

How to Make Baked Cheese Buns

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

Start by dissolving the yeast and sugar in your warm water. Let it stand for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the surface looks frothy and a little bubbly—this is a sign your yeast is alive and ready to leaven! It may seem simple, but this step is crucial for super-fluffy Baked Cheese Buns later.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add in your softened butter, eggs, and the now-foamy yeast mixture. Stir everything until it comes together—then get in there with your hands (or a dough hook), and knead until the dough is smooth, flexible, and slightly tacky, about 8–10 minutes. This builds gluten, which means soft buns that pull apart beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Once your dough is smooth, add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan. Gently knead or fold until the cheeses are evenly distributed. You’ll see beautiful little flecks of cheese throughout, promising big flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Rise and Shape

Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled—about an hour. Then, punch it down to deflate and divide into 12 even pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and line them up on a greased baking sheet, spaced just a bit apart.

Step 5: Second Rise

Give your buns a little time to puff up again—cover them loosely and let rise for 30 more minutes. This final rise ensures that your Baked Cheese Buns are extra light and tender inside.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Brush the tops of your buns generously with milk (for that gorgeous shine) and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and deliciously fragrant. Let them cool slightly before serving, but don’t be surprised if eager hands start grabbing them while they’re still warm!

How to Serve Baked Cheese Buns

Garnishes

Take your Baked Cheese Buns to the next level by sprinkling on a pinch of extra cheddar or Parmesan, or even a little chopped fresh parsley or chives right after baking. A light brush of melted butter infused with garlic or herbs will add both shine and flavor, making every bun impossible to resist.

Side Dishes

Baked Cheese Buns are incredibly versatile: serve them alongside soups—think tomato, creamy mushroom, or minestrone—or next to a hearty salad for a fresh contrast. They’re also perfect with classic comfort mains like roast chicken, barbecue, or pasta dishes. The mild cheesy richness pairs so well with almost anything!

Creative Ways to Present

You can wow your guests by slicing Baked Cheese Buns open and stuffing them with ham, roasted veggies, or even scrambled eggs for a killer breakfast slider. Try packing them in a picnic basket, or arrange them in a pretty bread basket lined with a colorful napkin for the dinner table—they’re a guaranteed showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers (no promises!), keep your Baked Cheese Buns fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them ultra-soft, you can tuck a piece of parchment or paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

Baked Cheese Buns freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap, then place them together in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to two months—perfect for prepping ahead for parties or satisfying a sudden cheese bun craving!

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop your Baked Cheese Buns into a 300°F oven for about 5–8 minutes, until warmed through and the cheese is just a little melty again. For an extra treat, brush them with a touch of butter as they come out of the oven. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the buns tough instead of plush.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in these Baked Cheese Buns?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan are a classic combo, feel free to experiment with other favorites like mozzarella, gouda, pepper jack, or even crumbled blue cheese for a bold twist. Just be sure any cheese you use is well-shredded or grated, so it incorporates smoothly into the dough.

My dough isn’t rising—what went wrong?

This usually means your yeast wasn’t activated properly. Check that your water was warm (about 110°F) but not hot, as water that’s too hot can kill yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and not expired, and always let it bloom into a froth before mixing it with the flour.

Can I make Baked Cheese Buns ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, then shape the buns and refrigerate them overnight on a baking sheet. When ready to bake, let the buns come to room temperature and complete their final rise before popping them in the oven for fresh, warm results.

How do I get really soft, fluffy buns?

The secret is in the kneading and the rising. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, and don’t skimp on the rising times—even if it’s tempting. Letting the dough double properly lets the yeast work its magic for the perfect texture. Brushing with milk or butter before baking adds that lovely soft crust.

Can I add extra flavors to the dough?

Definitely! Try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, fresh chopped herbs, or even finely diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. These additions blend beautifully with the cheeses and turn your Baked Cheese Buns into a totally custom creation.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing more satisfying than sharing a basket of warm, homemade Baked Cheese Buns with folks you love. Whether you’re baking them for a special meal or just because, each bite is guaranteed to earn instant smiles. I hope you give these a try soon—there’s really no wrong time for a fresh-out-of-the-oven cheese bun adventure!

Baked Cheese Buns Recipe

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4.9 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 buns 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Baked Cheese Buns are a delightful treat that combines the goodness of soft, homemade bread with the savory flavors of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy snack or to accompany your favorite soups and salads!

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs

Cheese Mixture:

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk

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Instructions

Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add softened butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Mix and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.
Rise Dough: Cover dough and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Shape Buns: Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Shape into buns and place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush buns with milk and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve: Cool slightly before serving.