Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are a viral culinary sensation that combines the irresistible allure of soft bread, a rich cream cheese filling, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Originating in South Korea, these buns have taken the world by storm, appearing in bakeries and kitchens everywhere. The perfect blend of savory garlic, sweet cream cheese, and pillowy bread makes these buns a unique and unforgettable treat.

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making these buns at home. Whether you’re preparing them for a brunch, a special dinner, or just indulging in a bakery-style treat, Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet and savory come together harmoniously in this recipe, with the garlic butter and cream cheese creating a delightful contrast.
  2. Soft and Fluffy Bread: The homemade bread buns are tender and airy, providing the perfect base for the filling and sauce.
  3. Simple Ingredients: Despite their complex flavor, these buns are made with easy-to-find pantry staples.
  4. Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or different cheeses to make the buns your own.
  5. Impressive Yet Easy: With clear instructions, even beginners can achieve bakery-quality results.

Preparation Time and Yield

  • Prep time: 30 minutes (plus dough rising time)
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 buns
  • Serving size: 1 bun

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 8 g

Ingredients

For the Buns:

  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 large eggs (1 for dough, 1 for egg wash)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp finely minced garlic
  • 1 tsp dried parsley or chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, 1 egg, and softened butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  2. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a round tip or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Buns

  1. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
  2. Second Rise: Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise for 30 minutes.
  3. Egg Wash and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of the buns. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the buns cool slightly.

Step 4: Fill the Buns

  1. Cut the Buns: Using a serrated knife, make six evenly spaced cuts on each bun, slicing about two-thirds of the way through to create wedges. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
  2. Pipe the Filling: Pipe the cream cheese mixture into the cuts of each bun, ensuring all wedges are filled generously.

Step 5: Coat with Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, mayonnaise, honey, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
  2. Dip the Buns: Holding each bun by the bottom, dip it into the garlic butter sauce, coating the top and sides thoroughly. Place the coated buns back on the baking sheet.
  3. Bake Again: Return the buns to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the buns warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently if needed.

Ingredient Background

  1. Cream Cheese: Provides the rich, tangy filling that balances the savory garlic butter.
  2. Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the garlic butter sauce, enhancing its flavor and texture.
  3. Honey: A touch of sweetness complements the savory garlic and tangy cream cheese.
  4. All-Purpose Flour: Creates the perfect balance of structure and softness in the dough.
  5. Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers the bold flavor essential to this dish.

Technique Tips

  • Warm Ingredients: Ensure the milk and water are warm (but not hot) to properly activate the yeast.
  • Don’t Overbake: Watch the buns closely during the second bake to prevent the garlic butter from burning.
  • Use a Serrated Knife: A serrated knife makes it easier to create clean cuts without squishing the buns.
  • Pipe Generously: Don’t skimp on the cream cheese filling—it’s a key element of the dish!
  • Serve Fresh: These buns are best served warm for optimal texture and flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

  1. Mini Buns: Divide the dough into 12 smaller portions for bite-sized buns, perfect for parties or brunch spreads.
  2. Garlic Knot Style: Shape the dough into knots and drizzle with garlic butter sauce, skipping the cream cheese filling for a simpler version.
  3. Cheesy Herb Buns: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan to the garlic butter sauce for an extra cheesy variation.
  4. Sweet Version: Replace the garlic butter with a cinnamon-sugar butter glaze for a dessert-style bun.
  5. Stuffed Rolls: Instead of slicing, stuff the buns with cream cheese filling before baking, and drizzle garlic butter on top.

Additional Tips for Success

  1. Test the Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh by testing it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before starting.
  2. Don’t Skip the Rises: Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures soft, fluffy buns.
  3. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily for a smooth filling.
  4. Customize the Garlic Butter: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
  5. Double the Recipe: These buns are so popular they disappear quickly—make extra to keep everyone happy!

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Garlic Buns: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
  2. Lemon Herb Buns: Incorporate lemon zest and fresh dill into the garlic butter for a refreshing twist.
  3. Whole Wheat Buns: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  4. Chocolate Cream Cheese Buns: Add cocoa powder and sugar to the cream cheese filling for a dessert-inspired version.
  5. Cheddar Jalapeño Buns: Mix shredded cheddar and diced jalapeños into the dough for a savory, spicy variation.

Freezing and Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked buns after the first rise. Thaw and continue with the recipe when ready to bake.
  • Reheating: Warm buns in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore freshness.

Healthier Twist Ideas

  1. Lightened Cream Cheese: Use reduced-fat cream cheese for the filling.
  2. Olive Oil Substitute: Replace butter with olive oil in the garlic sauce for a heart-healthy option.
  3. Honey-Free: Substitute maple syrup or agave for a natural sweetener alternative.
  4. Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or kale into the garlic butter for added nutrition.
  5. Use Whole Grains: Swap in whole wheat or spelt flour for a fiber boost.

Serving Suggestions for Events

  • Brunch Spread: Serve alongside fresh fruit, coffee, and mimosas for a show-stopping brunch dish.
  • Dinner Rolls: Pair with a creamy soup or salad for a satisfying meal.
  • Party Appetizer: Present as an interactive pull-apart bread centerpiece.
  • Potluck Favorite: Bring these buns to your next potluck—they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!
  • Holiday Treat: Include these buns in your holiday spread for a festive, bakery-quality addition.

Special Equipment

  • Stand Mixer: Speeds up kneading and ensures a smooth dough.
  • Piping Bag: Essential for neatly filling the buns with cream cheese.
  • Pastry Brush: Useful for evenly coating the buns with garlic butter sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use store-bought buns?
    Yes, but homemade buns deliver a fresher, more authentic result.
  2. What if I don’t have a piping bag?
    Use a zip-top bag with a small corner cut off as a makeshift piping bag.
  3. Can I make these gluten-free?
    Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust liquid ratios as needed.
  4. What other cheeses work for the filling?
    Mascarpone, ricotta, or even a flavored cream cheese can be substituted.
  5. How do I prevent soggy buns?
    Bake them again after dipping in the garlic butter sauce to set the coating.
  6. Can I make these ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare the buns and refrigerate after the first bake. Add garlic butter and reheat before serving.
  7. How do I achieve the best rise?
    Place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot for optimal rising conditions.
  8. Can I add extra garlic?
    Absolutely! Adjust the garlic amount to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that deliver bakery-quality results at home. With their soft, pillowy bread, rich cream cheese filling, and aromatic garlic butter glaze, these buns are the ultimate treat for any occasion. Follow this comprehensive guide to create your own batch of these viral favorites and impress everyone with your baking prowess. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked on this irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 buns 1x
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Buns:

  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 large eggs (1 for dough, 1 for egg wash)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp finely minced garlic
  • 1 tsp dried parsley or chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, 1 egg, and softened butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  2. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a round tip or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Buns

  1. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
  2. Second Rise: Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise for 30 minutes.
  3. Egg Wash and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of the buns. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the buns cool slightly.

Step 4: Fill the Buns

  1. Cut the Buns: Using a serrated knife, make six evenly spaced cuts on each bun, slicing about two-thirds of the way through to create wedges. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
  2. Pipe the Filling: Pipe the cream cheese mixture into the cuts of each bun, ensuring all wedges are filled generously.

Step 5: Coat with Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, mayonnaise, honey, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
  2. Dip the Buns: Holding each bun by the bottom, dip it into the garlic butter sauce, coating the top and sides thoroughly. Place the coated buns back on the baking sheet.
  3. Bake Again: Return the buns to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the buns warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently if needed.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bun
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 7g

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆