Cheese Stuffed Buns

Cheese Stuffed Buns

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar.
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy.
   • Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture and mix well.
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the mozzarella, feta, Parmesan, parsley (if using), and garlic powder (if using). Mix well.
3. Shape the Buns:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
   • Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
   • Flatten each ball into a disk and place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center.
   • Gather the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch to seal, then shape it back into a ball.
   • Place the filled buns seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the Buns:
   • Brush the tops of the buns with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with a gooey cheese center!

Enjoy your Cheese Stuffed Buns! If you need more recipes or any other assistance, feel free to ask.