Korean-style cream cheese garlic buns have taken the baking world by storm, combining sweet, savory, and creamy flavors into one irresistible treat. These buns feature a soft, fluffy bread filled with rich cream cheese, coated in a buttery garlic glaze, and baked to golden perfection.
In this exclusive optimized article, we’ll guide you through making these viral Korean cream cheese garlic buns at home. We’ll cover ingredients, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and variations to customize your buns.
Why This Recipe Works
- Soft & Fluffy Bread: The dough is light and airy, perfect for absorbing the garlic butter glaze.
- Creamy Cheese Filling: A sweet and tangy cream cheese mixture balances the savory garlic coating.
- Crispy, Buttery Topping: The garlic butter glaze caramelizes in the oven for a crispy, flavorful finish.
This recipe is easy to follow, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bakery-quality results at home.
Ingredients for Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
For the Bread Dough:
- 3 cups (360g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 2 ¼ tsp (7g) instant yeast
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk
- ¼ cup (60ml) warm water
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Garlic Butter Glaze:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp (30ml) condensed milk (or honey)
- 1 tbsp (15ml) heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 tbsp (15g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 2 tbsp (10g) chopped parsley
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in warm milk, water, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Add softened butter and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Transfer to a piping bag and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
- Divide Dough: Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.
- Form Balls: Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place on a baking tray.
- Second Rise: Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 4: Fill the Buns
- Make a Hole: Use a spoon to create a cavity in each bun.
- Pipe Filling: Fill each bun with cream cheese mixture.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Glaze
- Mix melted butter, minced garlic, condensed milk, cream, sugar, salt, and parsley.
Step 6: Coat and Bake
- Dip Buns: Generously coat each bun with the garlic butter mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Optional Cheese Topping: Sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan in the last 5 minutes.
Step 7: Serve Warm
- Enjoy fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture!
Expert Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
- Use Bread Flour for a softer, chewier texture.
- Don’t Overproof the dough to prevent collapsing.
- Adjust Sweetness by reducing sugar in the filling if preferred.
- Add Cheese for extra richness (mozzarella or cheddar work well).
- Reheat Before Serving if storing leftovers (5-10 mins in oven).
Variations & Customizations
- Spicy Version: Add 1 tsp chili flakes to the garlic butter.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle with honey after baking.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, cream cheese, and milk.
FAQs About Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
1. Can I use store-bought bread rolls?
Yes, but homemade dough yields the best texture.
2. How long do these buns last?
Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days (reheat before serving).
3. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze before baking, then thaw and bake when ready.
4. Why is my dough sticky?
Add a little more flour (1 tbsp at a time) while kneading.
Conclusion
These Korean-style cream cheese garlic buns are a must-try for anyone who loves the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. With this detailed, SEO-friendly guide, you can easily recreate this viral recipe at home.
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