Cumin Cheese Buns Recipe
These Cumin Cheese Buns are soft, fluffy, and full of flavor! The earthy warmth of cumin pairs perfectly with the rich, melty cheese, making these buns a savory treat ideal for any meal. Whether you serve them as a side for soups, stews, or salads, or enjoy them on their own, these buns are sure to become a favorite in your bread basket.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup warm water (or more if needed)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for the dough)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works great)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin (for the filling)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for brushing on top)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- Flaked sea salt, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then add the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to rise.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, ground cumin, and garlic powder (if using).
- Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, the butter, and the beaten egg. Add warm water little by little and mix until a dough forms. You may need to adjust the water depending on the texture of your dough—it should be soft, not too sticky.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the shredded cheese with the ground cumin and chili powder (if using). Stir well to distribute the cumin evenly throughout the cheese.
4. Shape the Buns:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×10 inches.
- Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, pressing it gently into the dough with your hands.
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a log or cylinder. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Cut the dough into 8-10 equal pieces, depending on your preferred size for the buns.
- Arrange the cut buns in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish or baking sheet. Space them slightly apart so they can rise together as they bake.
5. Let the Buns Rise:
- Cover the buns with a clean towel and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other.
6. Preheat the Oven:
- While the buns are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Bake the Buns:
- Once the buns have risen, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with a little extra ground cumin and flaked sea salt (if desired).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown on top and cooked through. If you tap the top of the bun, it should sound hollow.
8. Serve:
- Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, with melted cheese and a savory cumin aroma.
- These buns are perfect for dipping in soups or stews, or simply served as a side to any meal.
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their fluffiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the buns before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the buns, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes of bake time. For after baking, freeze the cooled buns and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Why You’ll Love These Cumin Cheese Buns:
- Flaky and Soft: The combination of buttery, fluffy dough with a gooey cheese filling creates the perfect balance of texture.
- Warm and Savory: The cumin gives these buns a warm, earthy flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the cheese variety or add additional herbs or spices like paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday meal, a cozy dinner, or a snack, these buns will impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar and mozzarella are great options, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, feta, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
- Add-ins: You can also add finely chopped herbs like cilantro, parsley, or green onions to the filling for extra freshness.
- Do Not Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the buns with cheese, as this may cause the filling to spill out during baking.
These Cumin Cheese Buns are a unique, flavorful twist on classic cheese bread and are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves savory, aromatic baked goods. Perfect for any meal, these buns are warm, comforting, and incredibly delicious! Enjoy!
