The comforting aroma of freshly baked dough and melted cheese is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. These South American-inspired Baked Cheese Buns offer an irresistible blend of chewy bread and gooey cheese centers, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Perfectly golden on the outside and delightfully cheesy on the inside, these buns are incredibly versatile. Pair them with eggs and fruit for a brunch spread, serve them alongside soup or salad for a light meal, or enjoy them solo with coffee for a snack that satisfies every time.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup warm milk (110°F)
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2¼ tsp active dry yeast
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1 tbsp sugar
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp salt
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4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1 large egg
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2 cups grated cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination)
Directions:
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In a bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
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In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms.
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Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled.
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Punch down dough, divide into 12 equal parts. Flatten each, add a tablespoon of cheese, and fold into a bun.
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Arrange buns on parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise another 30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush tops with milk or beaten egg.
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Bake 15–20 minutes or until golden and cheese oozes out.
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Cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Kcal: 285 kcal | Servings: 12 buns
A Brief History of Cheese Buns
Baked cheese buns, also known in Brazil as Pão de Queijo (when made with tapioca flour), have long been a staple in South American households. The version featured in this recipe leans into a more universal baking style using all-purpose flour, but the inspiration still traces back to Latin America, where cheesy, doughy rolls have become synonymous with warmth, hospitality, and shared meals.
In countries like Brazil and Argentina, cheese buns are sold at bakeries, street carts, and even fast food chains. They’re a staple during breakfast or served alongside a cup of strong coffee or mate. These buns have transcended their regional roots to become a beloved comfort food in kitchens around the world, especially as global food culture has embraced fusion and accessible international recipes.
Why These Buns Stand Out
Unlike store-bought or pre-made alternatives, these baked cheese buns boast a rich, homemade flavor and texture that’s difficult to replicate. What sets them apart is the combination of a soft, pillowy inside with a slight golden crisp on the outside. Stuffed generously with melty cheese, every bite offers a balance of airy bread and savory richness.
Using everyday pantry staples like flour, milk, butter, and cheese, these buns don’t require complicated ingredients or advanced baking techniques. That makes them an ideal recipe for beginners looking to expand their baking skills, as well as seasoned home cooks who want to whip up a reliable crowd-pleaser.
A Versatile Addition to Any Meal
One of the greatest strengths of these buns is their versatility. While they’re amazing on their own, they can easily complement a wide range of dishes. Serve them warm next to a hearty bowl of tomato soup or dip them into chili for a cheesy, doughy contrast to a spicy meal. You can also slice them in half and use them as mini sandwiches, perhaps with scrambled eggs and a touch of bacon for breakfast sliders.
At brunches and potlucks, these buns are often one of the first dishes to disappear. Their small size and approachable flavor make them perfect for picky eaters, kids, and adults alike. Whether you’re serving a formal brunch or packing lunchboxes, these buns find a way to fit right in.
Cheese Selection Matters
Although this recipe suggests a mix of mozzarella and cheddar, you’re welcome to experiment with the cheese you love most. Each cheese brings a different flavor and melt quality:
- Mozzarella melts beautifully and provides that iconic cheese pull.
- Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy depth.
- Gruyère or Fontina can give it a European twist.
- For a smokier flavor, try smoked gouda.
Mix and match to suit your palate or use whatever is available in your fridge. This is one of those forgiving recipes where creativity shines.
Healthier Than You Think
Despite their indulgent flavor, baked cheese buns can be a part of a balanced meal. When made at home, you control the ingredients—no preservatives, no unnecessary additives. You can even opt for low-fat cheese or whole wheat flour (though texture may vary slightly) to lighten the recipe.
They’re also portion-controlled by design. One bun is typically enough to satisfy a savory craving, making them a better choice than some fried or heavily processed snack foods. You can pair them with lean proteins and greens to create a more balanced plate.
Kid-Friendly and Great for Meal Prep
If you’re a busy parent or someone who loves to plan ahead, these buns are freezer-friendly and reheat beautifully. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in a toaster oven or warm them gently in the oven.
Kids love the gooey cheese centers and soft texture. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein and calcium if your child isn’t a fan of plain cheese slices. You can even get the kids involved in making these by letting them help shape the dough or stuff the cheese—an easy, mess-free kitchen activity.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Let the yeast bloom: Don’t skip the 5–10 minute wait when combining warm milk with yeast and sugar. It helps activate the yeast and gives your dough a better rise.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This promotes more consistent mixing and helps the dough develop evenly.
- Don’t over-knead: While kneading is necessary to build gluten structure, over-kneading can make the buns tough.
- Rest your dough: Allowing your dough to rise fully gives the buns a lighter texture and prevents them from becoming dense.
- Brush the tops: A light coating of milk or beaten egg gives your buns that professional bakery-style golden finish.
A Great Intro to Bread Baking
If you’re new to baking bread, this recipe is a gentle and encouraging starting point. It doesn’t involve complex shaping, sourdough starters, or long fermentation periods. It teaches the fundamentals of working with yeast, developing dough, and achieving that perfect bake—all while delivering delicious results.
Once you master these cheese buns, you’ll likely feel more confident to tackle other baking projects, such as cinnamon rolls, focaccia, or stuffed breads. Consider this recipe a gateway to greater kitchen adventures.
Flavor Add-Ins to Customize Your Buns
- Herbs: Add chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a more aromatic experience.
- Spices: Try a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even crushed red pepper flakes.
- Meats: Bits of crispy bacon or diced ham can make the buns heartier.
- Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added crunch and visual flair.
These simple additions elevate the recipe from everyday snack to gourmet treat with very little effort.
Why This Recipe Has Gone Viral
It’s easy to see why people are doubling the ingredients after the first bake—these cheese buns are just that good. With minimal prep time and maximum payoff, the recipe is both efficient and deeply satisfying. The visual appeal of melty cheese oozing out of warm buns makes it highly shareable on social media, while the nostalgic, cozy flavor keeps people coming back for more.
The recipe also hits the sweet spot between exotic and accessible. While it brings in Latin American flair, it doesn’t use obscure ingredients or difficult techniques. That makes it universally loved and incredibly shareable—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, bake sales, and more.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home cook, these Baked Cheese Buns are an absolute must-try. They combine the warmth of fresh bread with the indulgent pull of melted cheese, resulting in a food experience that’s both comforting and crave-worthy. From their South American inspiration to their global fan base, cheese buns have become more than just a dish—they’re a sensation.
Add this recipe to your go-to list, and don’t be surprised if your friends and family start requesting them again and again. You might even want to double the ingredients… just like everyone else.