If you have a soft spot for sweet, fluffy buns filled with luscious cream cheese and fresh fruit, then you’ll absolutely adore this Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe. This delightful treat combines the pillowy goodness of homemade dough with a creamy, strawberry-studded filling and a crumbly, golden pineapple-style topping that’s both crunchy and tender. Every bite offers a perfect balance of rich, tart, and sweet, making it an irresistible snack or appetizer for any occasion. Let me take you through this charming recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients is all you need to create a wonderful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role—from the tender dough to the creamy filling and that iconic topping that mimics the look of a pineapple bun’s crackly crust.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your buns, providing structure and softness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast: Helps your buns rise into fluffy perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup warm milk: Tenderizes the dough and activates the yeast efficiently.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 large egg: Boosts structure and gives a beautiful golden hue.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic note to the dough.
- 1/4 cup water (if needed): To adjust dough consistency if necessary.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the filling that just melts in your mouth.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Enhances the smoothness and flavor of the cream cheese.
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced: Adds freshness and a lovely natural color to the filling.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for topping): Creates the crumbly, crunchy pineapple topping.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping): Sweetens and lightens the topping texture.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Holds the topping together with a delicate crumb.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Adds softness and crispness to the topping batter.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the topping rise slightly and crack beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping): Infuses warmth in the topping’s flavor.
- Yellow food coloring (optional): Gives the topping that trademark golden “pineapple” look.
How to Make Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bun Dough
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mix forms the base of your bun dough. Then, add warm milk, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Combine until the dough just begins to pull together, feeling soft and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Knead Until Smooth
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes. The goal here is a silky, elastic texture that springs back lightly when poked. If your dough feels too stiff or dry, gently add a splash of water to help achieve the perfect consistency.
Step 3: First Rise
Place your dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest somewhere warm. After about 1 to 1.5 hours, it should have risen to nearly double in size, fluffy and inviting.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While your dough is rising, whip the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries, distributing them evenly without mashing their shape. This filling bursts with fresh flavor and adds a luscious creaminess inside the buns.
Step 5: Make the Pineapple Topping
In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until nice and fluffy. Stir in flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and vanilla extract until your mixture forms a soft dough. If you want your topping to resemble the golden pineapple bun crust, add a few drops of yellow food coloring. Set aside this lovely topping while your dough finishes rising.
Step 6: Shape and Fill the Buns
Once risen, gently punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten into a disc. Spoon a generous dollop of the creamy strawberry filling into the center of each disc. Fold up the edges carefully to encase the filling, pinching to seal tightly so none escapes during baking.
Step 7: Add the Pineapple Topping
Roll each filled bun into the pineapple topping mixture, pressing gently to cover the surface evenly. This will create a thick, crumbly layer on top that cracks gorgeously when baked.
Step 8: Second Rise and Bake
Place the buns seam-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and slightly larger. Then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown and the topping shows signature cracks.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove your buns from the oven and allow them to cool just enough to handle. Serve warm for the ultimate experience of soft dough, tangy-sweet filling, and crunchy topping all in one delightful bite.
How to Serve Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation of your Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe by sprinkling a little powdered sugar or decorating with thinly sliced fresh strawberries on top. A light glaze of honey or a drizzle of strawberry syrup can add an extra touch of sweetness that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
These buns pair beautifully with a cup of fragrant jasmine tea or a rich latte, making them perfect for an afternoon treat or brunch. If you want more texture contrast, serve alongside a crisp green salad or a refreshing fruit salad featuring citrus to brighten the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just serving the buns as-is. Slice them in half to make a tempting breakfast sandwich with a smear of extra cream cheese or fresh berries on the side. Alternatively, arrange them on a charming platter sprinkled with edible flower petals for a festive gathering or tea party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover buns after the celebration, keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This maintains the ideal softness of the dough and prevents the filling from drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe freezes well. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. When properly stored, they can stay fresh for up to one month.
Reheating
To enjoy these buns from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes until warmed through, or microwave for about 20 seconds to regain that fresh-baked softness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries in the filling?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw and drain them thoroughly first to avoid adding excess moisture that could affect the filling’s texture.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?
You could try ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different texture but similar creamy effect. Just note the flavor will be less tangy compared to cream cheese.
What if I don’t have yellow food coloring?
No worries! The topping will still be delicious without the coloring, though it won’t have the classic golden “pineapple” appearance.
Can I make these buns gluten-free?
Modifying this recipe to gluten-free may require special flour blends and adjustments to liquid amounts since gluten affects dough elasticity. Experimenting or using a tested gluten-free bread recipe as a base is recommended.
How do I know when the buns are fully baked?
They should be golden brown on top, with a cracked pineapple crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma of baked bread and filling is also a good signal they’re ready.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience filled with warmth, flavor, and the joy of creativity in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or simply treating yourself, these buns promise to bring smiles and happy taste buds all around. So go ahead, dive in, and make your day a little sweeter with this wonderful treat!
Print
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe
- Prep Time: 2h 30m
- Cook Time: 20m
- Total Time: 2h 50m
- Yield: 12 buns
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
Enjoy these delightful Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns, featuring a soft, fluffy bun filled with a creamy strawberry-cream cheese mixture and topped with a sweet, crumbly pineapple-style crust. Perfect for a special breakfast or afternoon treat, these buns combine a delicate balance of fruity sweetness and rich creaminess, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Bun Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water (if needed for dough consistency)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced
Pineapple Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Yellow food coloring (optional, to create the “pineapple” look)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bun Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt to create the dry mix.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Mix: Add the warm milk, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add water gradually if the dough feels too dry to achieve the right consistency.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add Strawberries to Filling: Gently fold diced strawberries into the cream cheese mixture ensuring even distribution. Set aside.
- Make the Pineapple Topping: In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Dry Ingredients to Topping: Mix in flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Add Yellow Coloring (Optional): Add a few drops of yellow food coloring to the topping mixture to achieve the characteristic pineapple bun color. Set the topping aside.
- Divide Dough and Shape Buns: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and flatten into discs.
- Fill the Buns: Place a spoonful of cream cheese and strawberry filling onto the center of each dough disc, then fold the edges over the filling and pinch tightly to seal.
- Place Buns on Baking Tray: Arrange the sealed buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Apply Pineapple Topping: Roll each bun gently in the pineapple topping mixture, ensuring a thick, crumbly layer covers the top.
- Second Rise: Let the buns rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed up and slightly larger.
- Preheat Oven: Set oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake the Buns: Bake for 18-20 minutes until the buns are golden brown and the topping has cracked slightly on top.
- Cool Slightly: Remove from oven and let the buns cool just enough to handle.
- Serve: Serve warm to enjoy their soft texture combined with the rich cream cheese and strawberry filling beneath the sweet pineapple topping.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- If dough feels sticky while kneading, add flour a tablespoon at a time until manageable, but avoid making it too dry.
- Yellow food coloring is optional but gives the topping an authentic pineapple bun appearance.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor in the filling.
- For best results, consume the buns the same day or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- You can warm the buns slightly before serving to enhance the creamy filling texture.
