As the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a sense of comfort and nostalgia. These Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crunchy Crumble Topping bring a delightful twist to traditional treats, blending the rich creaminess of cheesecake with spiced, tender apples nestled in soft, buttery dough. Not only are they wonderfully satisfying, but their quick prep time makes them perfect for cozy weekend brunches or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. The crunchy crumble topping adds texture that will have your loved ones asking for seconds. So, are you ready to embark on a baking adventure that will turn your kitchen into a warm, inviting haven?
Why are Apple Cheesecake Buns irresistible?
Heavenly aroma: The moment these buns hit the oven, the sweet, spiced scent will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, eagerly anticipating a taste.
Comforting experience: Each bite captures the warmth of apple pie and the richness of cheesecake, making them the ultimate treat for cozy gatherings.
Quick preparation: You can whip these up in no time, ideal for a last-minute brunch or an indulgent dessert.
Versatile pairing: Whether enjoyed solo, with coffee, or as part of a festive spread, they fit perfectly into any occasion.
A crowd-pleaser: They’re sure to impress friends and family alike, just like my delightful Apple Cider Whoopie pies or warm Apple Hand Pies.
Apple Cheesecake Buns Ingredients
• Get ready to bake up some joy with these delightful Apple Cheesecake Buns!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – A sturdy base for a soft bite; essential for the perfect structure.
- Yeast – Helps the dough rise and become fluffy; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough; enhances flavor and helps with browning.
- Butter – Brings richness and a tender texture; use unsalted for better control of flavor.
- Milk – Creates a soft, moist dough; warm it slightly to activate the yeast.
- Egg – Provides structure and richness; helps with the golden finish when used in the egg wash.
For the Apple Filling
- Apples – Use a mix of tart and sweet apples; Granny Smith and Honeycrisp offer excellent flavor balance.
- Sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness of apples; adjust based on your apple choice.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; a must-have for that cozy feel reminiscent of pies.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream Cheese – The creamy, decadent base of the filling; soften it for easy mixing.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake mix; adjust to taste depending on preference for sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use pure extract for the best results.
For the Crumble Topping
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the crumble; keep it chilled for a better texture.
- Butter – Creates a crumbly texture; make sure it’s cold for a crunchier topping.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a deeper sweetness and moisture; light or dark can be used depending on preference.
- Oats – Introduces heartiness to the crumble; optional for an extra crunch.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and adds a touch of shine to the buns; sift for smoother consistency.
- Milk or Cream – Adjusts thickness of the glaze; start with a small amount and add gradually.
These Apple Cheesecake Buns are a comforting indulgence, allowing a sweet transition between bites of soft dough, creamy cheesecake, and spiced apples. Enjoy baking them to share with your loved ones!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cheesecake Buns
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of instant yeast, 1/4 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Warm 1 cup of milk until just lukewarm and add 1/4 cup of unsalted butter to melt. Pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients along with 1 beaten egg, and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth, then cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Step 2: Make Apple Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the apple filling. Peel, core, and dice 3 cups of mixed apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender but not mushy. Remove from heat and let cool before using in the Apple Cheesecake Buns.
Step 3: Combine Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Be sure there are no lumps, as a velvety filling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Set the cheesecake filling aside as you will layer it with the apple filling while assembling the buns.
Step 4: Assemble Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, followed by the apple filling. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange the buns in a greased baking dish, cut side up.
Step 5: Prepare Crumble
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of cold, diced butter. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs. If desired, stir in 1/2 cup of oats for an added texture. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the assembled Apple Cheesecake Buns before baking.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is ready, place the baking dish with the buns on the center rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning. When done, remove from the oven and allow the buns to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Add Glaze
While the buns are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2-4 tablespoons of milk or cream until smooth. Adjust the thickness to your liking. Once the buns are slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the warm Apple Cheesecake Buns for a sweet finishing touch, and they are ready to be enjoyed!
Apple Cheesecake Buns Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these delicious buns and make them uniquely yours with some fun twists!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dough. The texture will still be delightful, just like in my French Apple Custard recipe!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or coconut milk for regular milk and use vegan cream cheese for the cheesecake filling. You still get that creamy and indulgent burst of flavor!
- Pears: Swap out apples for ripe pears in the filling for a sweet, juicy variation. This twist is like a warm hug on a cold day, offering a subtle sweetness!
- Spiced Glaze: Enhance the glaze with a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor. This addition will elevate the sweetness and perfectly complement the cheesecakes’ richness.
- Nutty Crumble: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for a delightful crunch. This extra texture will surprise your taste buds and give a beautiful rustic feel.
- Caramel Drizzle: Finish your buns with a drizzle of caramel sauce. This luxurious touch will turn these already heavenly buns into an unforgettable dessert experience!
- Cinnamon Raisin: Mix a handful of raisins into the apple filling for a delightful surprise. The sweetness of the raisins pairs beautifully with the warm apples and spiced cinnamon.
- Bourbon-Infused Apples: For an adult twist, soak your diced apples in a splash of bourbon before adding them to the filling. This gives your buns a rich, deep flavor to savor with every bite.
So go ahead, have a baking adventure and explore these variations to find your favorite! And don’t forget to enjoy with a side of coffee or tea, just like you might with a delicious slice of Philadelphia Eggnog Cheesecake.
What to Serve with Apple Cheesecake Buns
Elevate your baking experience by pairing these delightful buns with complementary dishes that add a delightful touch to your meal.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesecake buns, balancing sweetness with a burst of flavor.
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Warm Spiced Cider: Cozy up with a mug of spiced cider; the autumn flavors of cinnamon and clove beautifully harmonize with the apples in the buns.
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Creamy Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of creamy yogurt provides a tangy counterpoint, enhancing the sweetness of the buns and adding a creamy texture.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of freshly brewed coffee or a lightly spiced chai makes the perfect drink pairing, enhancing the cozy ambiance of your morning.
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Buttery Pancakes: Serve alongside fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup for a delightful breakfast spread that keeps everyone coming back for more.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the buns creates an indulgent dessert, transforming the already delicious treat into a showstopper.
Each pairing brings its own enchanting flavors and textures, creating a memorable meal that will warm hearts and satisfy cravings. Enjoy the delightful combo!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cheesecake Buns are ideal for meal prep convenience! You can prepare the dough and apple filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough, let it rise, then cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble. The apple filling can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to serve, roll out the dough, layer with the cheesecake and apple filling, sprinkle the crumble topping, and bake fresh! This way, you’ll enjoy warm, delicious buns with minimal effort and maintain their delightful texture and flavor, even when prepped ahead of time.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cheesecake Buns
Room Temperature: Store the buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and soft; enjoy them at their best around day two.
Fridge: If you wish to keep them longer, refrigerate the Apple Cheesecake Buns for up to a week; wrap them well to avoid moisture loss.
Freezer: For future enjoyment, freeze the buns by individually wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen buns in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, restoring their deliciously soft texture.
Tips for the Best Apple Cheesecake Buns
Use Quality Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh to achieve the perfect rise; this promotes a fluffy texture in your apple cheesecake buns.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead until smooth but avoid over-kneading, as this can result in tough buns instead of soft, airy bites.
Layer Thoughtfully: Spread the cheesecake filling and apple filling evenly, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully when rolled up.
Cool Before Glazing: After baking, let the buns cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and losing its shape.
Adjusting Sugar Levels: Taste your apple filling before assembling; you can always adjust the sugar to balance out the tartness of the apples.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to substitute pears for a delightful twist on the classic apple cheesecake buns; they add a different layer of flavor.
Apple Cheesecake Buns Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance. Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp apples add sweetness and juiciness. Using these two together will give your Apple Cheesecake Buns a delightful taste and texture.
How should I store the leftover buns?
Great question! Store your Apple Cheesecake Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent moisture loss.
Can I freeze the Apple Cheesecake Buns? What’s the best method?
Of course! To freeze the buns, let them cool completely, then wrap each bun in plastic wrap individually. Place the wrapped buns in a freezer bag or airtight container, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the warmth to bring back their delightful softness.
What should I do if my dough feels too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, that’s completely normal! Avoid adding too much flour, as it can make the buns tough. Instead, sprinkle in a small amount of flour, just enough to make the dough manageable. Always knead gently until the dough is smooth and stretchy—around 5-7 minutes should do the trick.
Can I customize the crumble topping?
Very! The crumble topping is wonderfully versatile. You can add oats for extra crunch or mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a more indulgent finish. If you prefer a sweeter topping, substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar or add spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile; feel free to get creative!
Is this recipe safe for pets?
While the Apple Cheesecake Buns are an indulgent treat for humans, they aren’t safe for pets. Ingredients like sugar and cinnamon may be harmful to them. Always keep baked goods out of reach from furry friends to prevent any mishaps!
Heavenly Apple Cheesecake Buns to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Warm the milk and add butter to melt. Pour into dry ingredients along with the beaten egg and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Peel, core, and dice the apples. In a medium saucepan, combine the apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll to 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly, then the apple filling. Roll tightly into a log and cut into 12 pieces. Arrange in a greased dish, cut side up.
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in oats if desired. Sprinkle over buns.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake buns for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over buns and enjoy!
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