Cheddar Cheese Buns
Exceptionally soft, fluffy, and loaded with savory flavor, these homemade Cheddar Cheese Buns are the ultimate side dish or sandwich base. Made with simple ingredients and fresh cheddar, they bake up golden brown and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Whole Milk warm (110°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp Active Dry Yeast 1 standard packet
- 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar divided
- ¼ cup Unsalted Butter melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large Egg room temperature
- 1 tsp Salt
- 3 to 3 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 ½ cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese freshly grated (plus extra for topping)
- Egg Wash:
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tbsp Milk or Water
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar, salt, and the egg. Whisk briefly.
- Add Flour: Attach the dough hook. Gradually add 3 cups of flour on low speed. If the dough is too wet, add the remaining half cup, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough clears the sides of the bowl.
- Knead & Add Cheese: Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Gently knead in the grated cheddar cheese until distributed evenly.
- First Rise: Form into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape: Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover loosely and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the buns with egg wash and top with a little extra cheese. Bake for 15-18 minutes until deeply golden brown.
- Cool: Let cool on a wire rack before serving.