Description
Soft, pillowy apple cheesecake buns filled with creamy cheesecake and sweet apple filling, topped with a buttery crumble that’s perfectly baked to golden brown. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of apple pie and cheesecake into a cozy fall treat that’s ideal for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ½ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple pie filling, chopped
For the Crumble:
- ½ cup flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp cold butter
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: Combine warm milk, instant yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the dough: Stir in the melted butter, egg, and salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the chopped apple pie filling gently.
- Make the crumble topping: Combine flour and brown sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Shape and fill the buns: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal balls. Flatten each ball slightly and press an indentation in the center to hold the filling. Spoon the cheesecake and apple mixture into each indentation.
- Add the crumble and bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over each filled bun. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown on top.
Notes
- Drizzle baked buns with caramel sauce for a bakery-style finish and added sweetness.
- Best enjoyed warm or the same day to retain their soft, fresh texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
