Soft and fluffy cheese buns made with cheddar, flour, and almond milk. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or base for a mouthwatering sandwich!
I still remember the first time I made these cheese buns—it was during a family gathering at my mom’s place. You know, one of those Sundays when the house smells like love and everyone’s crammed into the kitchen, chatting over coffee. My mom had this knack for turning the simplest ingredients into something magical, and her cheese buns were no exception.
She’d make them in double batches because, honestly, one tray wasn’t enough. I used to sneak into the kitchen just as they came out of the oven, too warm to handle but impossible to resist. That first bite was always a little too hot, but so worth it—soft, cheesy, with a slightly crisp top. Fast forward to today, and these buns have become my go-to recipe whenever I want to recreate that cozy, nostalgic vibe. Trust me, these buns are the kind of comfort food that makes you pause and just enjoy the moment.
Why You’ll Love This Cheese Buns Recipe?
- Soft & Fluffy Texture: These buns are like edible pillows, with a golden, cheesy top.
- Versatility: Whether you’re serving them alongside soup or using them for sandwiches, they’re always a hit.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: No fancy ingredients needed—just pantry staples and a whole lot of love.
- Customizable: Swap out the cheese or add herbs to make them your own.
Ingredient Notes:
What makes these cheese buns stand out? It’s all in the details!
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorites like Gruyère or mozzarella.
- All-Purpose & Whole Wheat Flour: The combo gives these buns a soft interior with just a hint of nuttiness.
- Instant Yeast: The key to that irresistible fluffiness. Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk keeps things light and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Honey: Just a touch for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory cheese.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness without making the dough heavy.
How To Make Cheese Buns?
Making these buns is easier than you think. Let’s break it down:
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flours, yeast, salt, and one cup of grated cheese. The smell of cheddar here is your first hint of how good these buns will be. - Prepare the Wet Ingredients
Warm the almond milk and honey together until just lukewarm—think cozy bathwater. Stir in the olive oil to make sure everything is smooth. - Combine and Knead
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until it starts to come together. Then, roll up your sleeves and knead it on a lightly floured surface for a couple of minutes. The dough will feel soft and slightly tacky—just right. - First Rise
Pop the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour. It should double in size. - Shape the Buns
Divide the dough into eight equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. - Second Rise
Let the buns rest again for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for that perfect fluffy texture. - Bake to Perfection
Brush the buns with whisked egg, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, and bake at 338°F (170°C) for 20–25 minutes. They’ll come out golden, cheesy, and utterly irresistible.
Storage Options:
- Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, pop them in the oven until warm and slightly crispy.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Parmesan, Gouda, or even a mix of cheeses.
- Herbs & Spices: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your yeast is gluten-free.
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What to Serve with Cheese Buns?
Cheese buns are incredibly versatile. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Soups: Tomato bisque, creamy broccoli cheddar, or classic chicken noodle.
- Salads: A crisp Caesar or a tangy Greek salad.
- Dips: Serve with marinara, garlic butter, or a creamy spinach dip.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, any unsweetened milk will work just fine.
My buns didn’t rise much. What went wrong?
Check your yeast—it might be expired. Also, make sure your liquid wasn’t too hot or too cold; lukewarm is perfect.
So, what do you think? Ready to bake a batch of these cheesy delights? Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner or just because, these cheese buns are sure to become a favorite. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you—drop me a comment or share your photos!
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Cheese Buns
Ingredients
- 2 cups 240 g All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup 120 g Whole Wheat Flour
- 1 tsp Instant Yeast
- ½ tsp Salt
- 1½ cups 180 g Grated Cheddar Cheese (divided)
- 1¼ cups 300 ml Unsweetened Almond Milk
- ½ tbsp Honey
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 large egg whisked (for brushing)
Instructions
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, instant yeast, salt, and 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.
Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, gently warm the almond milk and honey until lukewarm. Stir in the olive oil, ensuring the honey dissolves completely.
Mix and Knead Dough:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Buns:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Second Rise:
- Cover the buns with the kitchen towel and allow them to rise again for 30 minutes, ensuring they become light and airy.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 338°F (170°C) while the buns complete their second rise.
Prepare for Baking:
- Brush the tops of the buns with the whisked egg for a glossy finish. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese evenly over each bun.
Bake:
- Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!