Introduction to Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? These Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a warm hug for the soul. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a delightful afternoon snack, these buns are soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply indulge in a sweet moment for yourself, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious escape. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns
These Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns are a delightful combination of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings. The soft, pillowy texture paired with the creamy filling and sweet blueberries creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, they look stunning on any table, making them a showstopper for brunch or dessert. You’ll love how simple yet impressive they are!
Ingredients for Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of your brioche, giving it that soft, fluffy texture.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and filling, balancing the tartness of the blueberries.
- Instant yeast: This little powerhouse helps the dough rise quickly, making the process a breeze.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
- Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture, creating a tender bun.
- Large eggs: Provide richness and help bind the ingredients together.
- Softened butter: Adds a luxurious richness and flavor to the brioche.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this elevates the flavor profile, making it even more delightful.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling, it brings a creamy, tangy element that pairs beautifully with blueberries.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the filling and complements the blueberries perfectly.
- Heavy cream: Optional, but it makes the filling extra smooth and luscious.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries: Bursting with flavor, they add a juicy sweetness to each bite.
- Cornstarch: Only needed if using frozen berries, it helps thicken the filling.
- Brown sugar: For the crumble topping, it adds a deep, caramel-like flavor.
- Cinnamon: Optional, but a pinch can add warmth and depth to the crumble.
- Egg wash: A mixture of egg and milk brushed on the buns for a beautiful golden finish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns
Make the Brioche Dough
Let’s start with the heart of our Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns: the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. This mix is like a cozy blanket for your yeast, helping it wake up and do its magic. Next, add the warm milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Now, it’s time to knead! Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 3-4 minutes. It should feel soft and slightly tacky. Gradually add the softened butter, kneading for another 5-6 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Picture a soft pillow; that’s the texture you want! Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens!
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While the dough is rising, let’s whip up the creamy filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth. Add the sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and heavy cream if you’re using it. Mix until everything is well combined and pipeable. This filling is like a dreamy cloud of flavor! Once it’s ready, transfer it to a piping bag and chill it in the fridge. This will make it easier to fill the buns later.
Prepare the Crumble
Now, let’s create that irresistible crumble topping. In a bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon if you like. Next, add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingers, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. This step is crucial for that crunchy texture! Once done, pop it in the fridge to keep it cool while we shape the buns.
Shape the Buns
With the dough risen, it’s time to shape our buns. Punch down the dough gently to release the air. Divide it into 10-12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray. Let them rest for about 15 minutes. Now, here’s the fun part: use the bottom of a small cup or your fingers to press a deep well into the center of each bun. Be careful not to go all the way through! Brush the edges of the dough with the egg wash for that golden finish.
Fill and Top
Now comes the best part: filling the buns! Take your chilled cream cheese filling and pipe a generous amount into each well you created. Next, sprinkle fresh or frozen blueberries on top, pressing them lightly into the cream. This is where the flavor explosion happens! Finally, add a spoonful of the crumble topping over the blueberries. It’s like a cozy blanket for your fruity filling!
Final Rise
Let the filled buns rise for another 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they look slightly puffy. This final rise is essential for achieving that light, airy texture we all love.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the buns have risen, pop them in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn a beautiful golden brown. When they’re done, the cream will thicken as they cool, creating a luscious filling. Let them cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother dough and filling.
- Don’t rush the rising times; they’re crucial for fluffy buns.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
- Keep the crumble topping chilled until ready to use for the best texture.
- Experiment with different berries for a fun twist on the classic recipe!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; any bowl will do!
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; a kitchen scale works too.
- Rolling pin: For shaping the dough; a wine bottle can be a fun substitute.
- Piping bag: For filling; a zip-top bag with a corner snipped works perfectly.
- Baking tray: A parchment-lined tray for baking; any oven-safe dish will suffice.
Variations
- Fruit Swap: Try using raspberries or strawberries instead of blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk and butter for a vegan-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these buns gluten-free.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some chocolate chips with the blueberries for a decadent twist!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns
Can I use frozen blueberries for the filling?
Absolutely! Just remember to add a teaspoon of cornstarch to help thicken the filling. Frozen blueberries work wonderfully in these Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns, especially if fresh ones aren’t available.
How do I store leftover buns?
Store any leftover Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and filling the buns.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. Both will give a creamy texture, but the flavor will vary slightly in your Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns.
How can I make these buns more visually appealing?
For a beautiful finish, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top after they cool. You can also add a drizzle of icing made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness!
Final Thoughts
Making these Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns is more than just baking; it’s about creating moments of joy. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the creamy filling and sweet blueberries brings a smile to anyone’s face. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring one with your morning coffee, each bite is a little piece of happiness. I hope this recipe inspires you to fill your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delightful experience of baking these scrumptious buns!
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Blueberry Cream Cheese Brioche Buns that Wow Your Taste Buds!
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 buns 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously soft and fluffy brioche buns filled with a creamy blueberry cream cheese mixture, topped with a crunchy crumble.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (380 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (70 g) sugar
- 1 tbsp instant yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60 g) softened butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 250 g cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional for extra smoothness)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch (only if using frozen berries)
- 1/2 cup (65 g) flour (for crumble topping)
- 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (55 g) cold butter, cubed
- Pinch cinnamon (optional)
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Make the Brioche Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, salt. Add warm milk, eggs, vanilla → mix until dough forms. Knead 3–4 minutes. Add soft butter gradually and knead until smooth (5–6 more minutes). Dough should be soft, slightly tacky, and elastic. Cover and let rise 1 hour (or until doubled).
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, cream. Mix until silky and pipeable. Transfer to piping bag and chill.
- Prepare the Crumble: Mix flour + sugar + cinnamon. Add cold butter and rub with fingers until pea-size crumbs form. Refrigerate.
- Shape the Buns: Punch down the risen dough. Divide into 10–12 equal balls. Flatten each ball slightly and place on a parchment-lined tray. Let rest 15 minutes. Use a small cup bottom or your fingers to press a deep well in the center of each bun (not all the way through). Brush the dough edges with egg wash.
- Fill and Top: Pipe a generous amount of cream cheese filling into each well. Sprinkle blueberries on top (press lightly into the cream). Add a spoonful of crumble over the berries.
- Final Rise: Let buns rise 20–25 minutes until slightly puffy.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F. Bake 18–20 minutes, until golden brown and the cream is set. Cool 10 minutes before serving (cream will thicken as it cools).
Notes
- For best results, use fresh blueberries.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Adjust the sugar in the filling based on your sweetness preference.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
