These Blueberry Cream Cheese Buns are the perfect treat for any time of day, whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With soft, fluffy dough filled with a rich cream cheese mixture and topped with fresh blueberries, these buns are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: a buttery, soft bun with a creamy filling, complemented by fresh blueberries. The dough is tender yet sturdy, and the cream cheese filling adds a smooth, rich contrast to the light sweetness of the bun. Topped off with a dusting of powdered sugar, they make for an irresistible breakfast or afternoon treat. Perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a moment of self-care, these buns are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 3 ¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar

• 1/2 tsp (3g) salt

• 2 ¼ tsp (7g) active dry yeast, or 25 g fresh yeast

• 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm milk, divided

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup (56g) butter, softened

Cream Cheese Filling

• 10 oz (300g) cream cheese

• 1 egg

• 3 tbsp (24g) powdered sugar

• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract

For topping

• Fresh blueberries

• 1 egg, for brushing

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine yeast, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/4 cup lukewarm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast.

2. Add the remaining flour, sugar, salt, milk, egg, vanilla extract, and softened butter to the activated yeast mixture.

3. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and slightly pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

4. Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.

5. After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bun. Place the buns on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

6. Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and let them rest for 15-20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

7. Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together cream cheese, egg, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a plain tip.

8. Shape the buns: Press each bun lightly using a glass dipped in flour to create a well for the cream cheese filling.

9. Pipe the cream cheese mixture into each well and top with fresh blueberries.

10. Brush the edges of the buns with beaten egg and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

11. Let the buns cool slightly on a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 buns

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Resting Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Berry mix: While blueberries work wonderfully, you can substitute them with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or a mixed berry blend.

• Add lemon zest: To add a refreshing zing to the cream cheese filling, you can incorporate some lemon zest.

• Jam swirl: Add blueberry jam to the cream cheese filling for a more intense berry flavor.

• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make the recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These buns can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them.

2. Can I make these buns ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it after shaping the buns. Let them rise for about 30 minutes at room temperature before baking.

3. Can I use a different cheese for the filling?

You can try mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a milder flavor.

4. Can I freeze these buns?

Yes, once baked, these buns can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat them in the oven when ready to enjoy.

5. Can I add a glaze on top of these buns?

Absolutely! A simple powdered sugar glaze or even a lemon glaze would complement these buns beautifully.

6. How do I know when the buns are done baking?

The buns should be golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch. You can also use a toothpick to check if they are cooked through.

7. Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Knead for about 5 minutes on medium speed.

8. Can I use crescent roll dough instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute the homemade dough with crescent roll dough for a quicker version.

9. Is there a way to make the cream cheese filling sweeter?

If you like your filling sweeter, you can increase the amount of powdered sugar by 1-2 tablespoons.

10. Can I make the dough by hand if I don’t have a mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand. It might take a little longer, but the dough will come together with some elbow grease!

Conclusion

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Buns are the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and softness. They make a wonderful breakfast or snack that will brighten any day. With the option for variations and easy steps, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheated, these buns will surely satisfy your sweet cravings!