The Moment I Realized I’d Never Make Just One Batch Again…

Those Baked Cheese Buns came out of the oven all golden and puffy, with crispy-cheese edges and a pull-apart softness that made everyone in my house stop what they were doing and come running.

One bite and my kids were asking for more. My husband actually hid a few in the breadbox “for later.” I knew then and there—this wasn’t going to be a one-and-done recipe. Next time, I’m making a double batch. Trust me… once you try these, you will too.

It started with a lazy Sunday. You know the kind—cloudy skies, music playing low, and the smell of something amazing slowly filling the kitchen. I wasn’t planning anything fancy, just trying to use up some shredded cheese and that last bag of flour that had been calling to me all week. And then… it happened.

Why You’ll Love These Baked Cheese Buns

🧀 Cheesy in every bite – Melted cheese pockets inside soft, fluffy dough. Enough said.
🕒 Quick to prep – Ready in under 1 hour from start to finish.
💵 Budget-friendly – Just pantry staples + cheese.
👶 Kid-approved – Zero leftovers every time.
🍽️ Perfect for any meal – Breakfast, lunchboxes, soup side… or straight off the tray!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything to make 12 irresistibly cheesy buns:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp instant yeast
¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
2 tbsp melted butter (plus more for brushing)
1 egg
1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder or dried herbs for extra flavor

Ingredient Tips:

Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch, but mozzarella adds stretch.
Milk substitute: Use almond or oat milk if dairy-free.
Add-ins: Toss in cooked bacon bits, scallions, or chopped jalapeños for a twist.

How to Make Baked Cheese Buns (Step-by-Step)

1. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Whisk together. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.

2. Knead It

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Or let your mixer do the work!)

3. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 30–40 minutes, or until doubled in size.

4. Cheese Time

Punch down the dough and flatten it slightly. Knead in the shredded cheese, folding and mixing until it’s evenly distributed.

5. Shape the Buns

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.

6. Final Rise

Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rise for 15–20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Bake

Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter (and sprinkle a little extra cheese if you’re feeling bold). Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden and bubbling.

8. Cool (If You Can Wait)

Let cool for a few minutes before digging in. Or don’t—we never can.

Pro Tips and FAQs

What’s the best cheese to use?

A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella balances flavor and melt. Avoid super wet cheeses like fresh mozzarella or soft goat cheese.

Can I freeze these?

Absolutely. Once baked, let them cool, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes.

How do I keep the dough from sticking?

Lightly flour your hands and surface. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.

Final Thoughts – These Baked Cheese Buns Never Last Long

There’s just something magical about cheesy bread straight from the oven. It’s cozy, comforting, and always hits the spot. If your family is anything like mine, these Baked Cheese Buns will disappear before they even hit the table. So here’s your friendly warning: make a double batch.

Tried them? Let us know in the comments below! Share your favorite cheese combo or secret add-in. We love seeing your creations. 💬🧡