As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s an undeniable craving for the warm, comforting scents that only autumn can bring. This is precisely when I found myself in the kitchen, inspired to create a treat that captures the essence of the season: Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns. Imagine the first bite of these pillowy buns, filled with creamy cheesecake and spiced apple filling, topped off with a crunchy crumble that just begs for a cozy blanket and a good book.
After a busy week, there’s something incredibly soothing about the process of kneading dough and watching it rise. As cinnamon wafts through my home, I can’t help but feel transported to a charming bakery, even if I’m just a few steps from my own kitchen. Perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts or charming dessert displays, these buns are more than just a treat— they’re a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Let’s get started on this scrumptious journey!
Why are Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns so special?
Warm, Comforting Aroma: The scent of baking apples and cinnamon fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere great for sharing with loved ones.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite apple varieties or add nuts for an exquisite touch.
Perfectly Indulgent: Rich cream cheese filling paired with tender brioche creates an irresistible treat that combines all the best flavors of fall.
Ideal for Sharing: These buns make an impressive centerpiece for any brunch table or cozy gathering, guaranteed to wow your guests.
A Heartfelt Cooking Experience: This recipe invites you to embrace the joy of baking, making every step a rewarding experience.
Memorable Moments: The blend of textures and flavors ensures these are more than just buns; they’re an opportunity to create lasting memories around the table.
Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Milk (¾ cup + 1 tablespoon) – Activates the yeast for a perfect rise; use whole milk for extra richness.
• Active Dry Yeast (1 package) – Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar (1 teaspoon + ⅓ cup) – Provides the sweetness and supports yeast activation.
• Bread Flour (3 cups) – Offers structure and chewiness; can be substituted with all-purpose flour if needed.
• Salt (¾ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; don’t skip this step!
• Egg Yolks (2) – Enrich the dough with added richness without excess liquid from the whites.
• Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons, softened) – Adds tenderness and flavor to your brioche.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Optional, but adds warmth to the overall flavor profile.
For the Apple Filling
• Apples (2 large, peeled and diced) – Choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties for depth; they provide great texture.
• Spices (1¾ teaspoons cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon each of allspice and nutmeg) – Provide aromatic fall flavors; adjust according to your preference.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Forms the creamy center; full-fat yields the best consistency.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup for filling) – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture for a delicious center.
For the Crumble Topping
• Brown Sugar (¼ cup for filling and ⅓ cup for crumble) – Adds moisture and a rich flavor; vital for the topping’s appeal.
• Cinnamon (½ teaspoon for crumble) – Intensifies the flavors of both filling and topping.
• All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup for crumble) – Binds the crumble together, making it delightfully crunchy.
These Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns are sure to warm your heart and home this fall!
How to Make Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns
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Prepare Brioche Dough: In a bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it foam for about 10 minutes. Then, mix in bread flour, remaining sugar, salt, egg yolks, and the yeast mixture using a stand mixer. Knead for 10 minutes, then slowly add softened butter and knead until smooth, about 12-15 minutes.
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First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
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Make Apple Filling: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Add diced apples, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Cook until apples are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
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Prepare Sweet Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, creamy filling.
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Make Crumble Topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Mix until crumbly and set aside to cool slightly.
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Shape Buns: After the first rise, punch down the dough and divide it into 10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
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Fill Buns: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Once the dough has risen, make an indent in each bun and fill with the cream cheese and apple mixture. Top with the crumble mixture.
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Bake: Brush the tops with egg wash or milk, and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and the tops are crisp.
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Cool & Serve: Allow the buns to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns Variations
Feel free to play around and make these delightful buns your own with these fun and easy variations!
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Apple Variety: Experiment with Granny Smith for a tart kick or Honeycrisp for a sweeter bite; each apple brings its own special flavor!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for extra texture and a lovely nutty flavor.
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Spice It Up: Boost the spice level by incorporating ginger or cardamom for a warm and aromatic twist that truly excites the taste buds.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap the bread flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs while still enjoying this scrumptious treat!
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Cheese Swap: Use mascarpone instead of cream cheese for a rich and creamy filling that adds an exquisite Italian flair to your buns.
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Fruity Zest: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins to the filling for a burst of sweetness that complements the flavors of fall beautifully.
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Vanilla Infusion: Add an extra splash of vanilla extract to the dough for a heavenly aroma and extra layers of flavor.
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Caramel Drizzle: For an indulgent finish, glaze the warm buns with a drizzle of caramel sauce, enhancing their sweetness and addictiveness.
Embrace the joy of creation as you make these Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns uniquely yours!
Storage Tips for Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns
Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: For longer preservation, these delightful buns can be refrigerated for up to a week. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To enjoy your Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns later, freeze them individually in a sealable bag or container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you crave that fresh-baked taste!
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through, restoring their fluffy texture and delicious aroma.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns are perfect for meal prep and can save you time on busy mornings! You can prepare the brioche dough and let it rise up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it after the first rise (just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before shaping). Additionally, the apple filling and cream cheese mixture can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in airtight containers in the fridge. Just before serving, shape the buns, fill them with the chilled apple and cream cheese mixtures, sprinkle with crumble topping, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, freshly baked buns with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns?
These delightful buns are perfect for creating a comforting and satisfying meal experience. Pair them with thoughtful sides and beverages to elevate your cozy gatherings!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: The burst of vibrant flavors complements the rich filling, adding a refreshing touch that brightens the dish.
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Warm Spiced Cider: Sip on this cozy drink infused with cinnamon and nutmeg; it brings out the autumnal flavors in the buns perfectly.
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Maple Pecan Oatmeal: This warm, hearty bowl enhances the sweetness of the buns while offering a satisfying contrast in texture.
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Crisp Green Salad: A light, tangy salad with greens and a citrus dressing balances the indulgence of the buns, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Caramel Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce over the buns takes them to an entirely new level of sweet decadence, making them irresistible.
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Nutty Granola: Serve alongside for a crunchy contrast that offers a delightful texture combination with every bite of your soft brioche.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace fall vibes with a comforting latte that pairs exquisitely with the creamy richness of the buns.
Each of these pairings will seamlessly enhance your Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns experience, ensuring your gatherings are filled with warmth and joy!
Expert Tips for Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. This prevents inconsistencies and ensures your Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns turn out perfectly every time.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always check your yeast for freshness. Active dry yeast is crucial for the dough to rise properly, enhancing the overall texture.
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Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky, add flour gradually. This prevents frustration during the shaping process, making it easier to work with.
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Windowpane Test: Perform the windowpane test to check dough readiness. If it stretches thin without tearing, you’re all set to proceed!
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust spices in your filling. Adding chopped nuts can also bring a delightful crunch to your Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns.
Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor combination, I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apple varieties. Granny Smith apples work wonderfully for their tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add a nice sweetness. The blend creates a depth of flavor in every bite, perfectly complementing the cream cheese filling.
How should I store leftover Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure they are well-wrapped to maintain their softness.
Can I freeze the Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns?
Absolutely! To freeze, individually wrap each bun in plastic wrap and place them in a sealable bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes to restore their delicious fluffy texture.
What should I do if my brioche dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is a bit too sticky while kneading, don’t worry! Simply sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and your hands as you knead. Add flour gradually—typically, about 1 tablespoon at a time—until the dough is manageable but still soft. This will help you achieve that perfect brioche consistency without compromising the dough’s fluffiness.
Is there a way to check if my active dry yeast is fresh?
Yes! To check if your yeast is still active, mix it with warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar, letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes. If it bubbles and foams, your yeast is fresh and ready to use. If not, it’s best to purchase a new package to ensure your Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns rise beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations for making these buns?
If you’re concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions, you can customize this recipe! Opt for dairy-free cream cheese and non-dairy milk to make them vegan. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your specific needs.
Irresistible Apple Cheesecake Brioche Buns for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it foam for about 10 minutes.
- Mix in bread flour, remaining sugar, salt, egg yolks, and the yeast mixture using a stand mixer. Knead for 10 minutes.
- Slowly add softened butter and knead until smooth, about 12-15 minutes.
- Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Add diced apples, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Cook until apples are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Mix until crumbly and set aside.
- After the first rise, punch down the dough and divide into 10 pieces. Shape each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Make an indent in each bun and fill with cream cheese and apple mixture. Top with the crumble.
- Brush the tops with egg wash or milk, and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow buns to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature.