Description

There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked bread, and when it’s stuffed or topped with melty, savory cheese? Pure magic.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)

2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg

For the Cheese Filling and Topping:

1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a mix)

2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Optional: garlic powder, parsley, sesame seeds for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the softened butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine, then gradually add the remaining flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also knead using a stand mixer with the dough hook for 5–6 minutes.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Fill

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small circle. Add a tablespoon of shredded cheese in the center, then fold the dough around it and pinch to seal. Roll gently into a ball and place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped buns loosely with a towel and let them rise again for 25–30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each bun with melted butter and sprinkle with extra cheese or seasonings, if desired. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let buns cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, soup, or just on their own.

Notes

Use warm—not hot—milk to activate the yeast properly. Measure flour carefully to avoid dry dough. Knead well to develop gluten, which creates a light, fluffy texture. Let the dough rise fully for better flavor and softness. Use good-quality cheese that melts well, like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella. Add cheese on top for an extra layer of crispiness and flavor.

Prep Time: 25
Cook Time: 90
Category: appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 12 rolls
Calories: 210
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g

Keywords: Baked Cheese Buns