Description
These Apple Cheesecake Buns feature a soft, sweet yeast dough filled with a creamy cheesecake layer and a spiced apple filling, all topped with a crunchy crumble and a smooth, sweet glaze. Perfectly balanced with warm cinnamon and vanilla notes, these buns are a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Sweet Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a sticky dough forms, then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside for later use.
- Cook Apple Filling: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Make Crumble Topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Shape Buns: Punch down the risen dough to release air. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Layer Fillings: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then evenly spread the cooled apple filling on top of the cheesecake layer.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut this log into 12 equal slices and place each slice flat on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Add Crumble Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over each bun. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the buns are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: While the buns are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. When buns come out warm from the oven, drizzle the glaze over the tops for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Allow the apple filling to cool completely before spreading it on the dough to prevent sogginess.
- You can substitute apples with pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and butter substitutes.
- These buns are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
