Cumin Cheese Buns, a delightful savory treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as an accompaniment to soups and salads. These soft, cheesy buns have a warm, earthy cumin flavor that adds a unique twist.
Cumin Cheese Buns Recipe
These cumin cheese buns are soft, fluffy, and bursting with cheesy goodness. The cumin seeds give them a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the rich cheese, making these buns a perfect savory indulgence.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cumin seeds, lightly toasted
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gouda, or any preferred cheese)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the bowl)
- 1 egg yolk, beaten (for brushing the tops)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, which indicates the yeast is activated.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and toasted cumin seeds. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and the egg to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough begins to form.
Gradually add the shredded cheese, mixing it evenly into the dough. You can use cheddar for a sharp flavor, Gouda for a smoky taste, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
3. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as you want the dough to stay soft.
4. First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 8-10 pieces) and shape each portion into a round bun.
Place the buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them to allow for rising. Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the Oven
While the buns are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Brush and Bake
Once the buns have risen, brush the tops with the beaten egg yolk for a golden, shiny finish. Optionally, you can sprinkle a few extra cumin seeds on top for a more pronounced cumin flavor.
Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cumin cheese buns from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Cumin Cheese Buns are perfect for serving alongside:
- Soups and stews: Their savory flavor makes them a great side for hearty soups or chili.
- Sandwiches: Split them open and use them for sandwiches, adding more cheese, meats, or vegetables.
- Breakfast: Serve them with scrambled eggs or as a base for an egg sandwich.
Tips for the Best Cumin Cheese Buns
- Use freshly toasted cumin seeds: Toasting the cumin seeds before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor and aroma.
- Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination. A mix of sharp and mild cheeses works wonderfully.
- Add herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
Storage and Reheating
Store these buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. They also freeze well; just wrap them individually and thaw before reheating.
Enjoy these Cumin Cheese Buns—a warm, cheesy, and subtly spiced treat that’s perfect for any time of the day!