As I stepped into my kitchen, the sweet aroma of baking bread wrapped around me like a warm hug. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns—a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that’s sure to elevate your homemade meals. These buns boast a soft, pillowy interior paired with a crispy exterior, creating a versatile snack or side dish that’s utterly irresistible. Aside from being a standout addition to any meal, they’re also quick to prep and adaptable for dietary preferences, whether you opt for brioche sliders or a vegan twist by skipping the egg. Each bite brings together rich creaminess and robust garlic flavors, making them perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a cozy treat at home. Ready to dive into this delightful bread experience? Let’s bake some magic together!
Why Try Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet cream cheese and savory garlic creates a flavor explosion you won’t forget.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these buns ready to bake, making them perfect even for beginner cooks.
Versatile Adaptations: Feel free to experiment! Swap in brioche sliders or try roasting garlic for a milder taste—there’s a variation for every palate.
Perfect for Sharing: These buns are a crowd-pleaser, whether served as an appetizer with soups or as a side to pasta.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake a batch and store them for later enjoyment—these buns reheat beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy their deliciousness whenever you crave it.
These Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns aren’t just a recipe; they’re a delightful experience you’ll want to share!
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns Ingredients
For the Buns
• King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls – The soft, sweet structure of these rolls makes them perfect for this recipe; brioche sliders can be a delicious substitute.
• Egg – Aids in binding the custard mixture and adds richness; can be omitted for a vegan version.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese – Adds rich creaminess to the filling; opt for non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan option.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Sweetens the filling and contributes moisture; regular milk with sugar works as a substitute.
For the Garlic Custard
• Butter – Creates a rich garlic butter custard that enhances flavor and moisture; vegan butter is a great alternative.
• Garlic – Provides that signature savory flavor; use fresh or minced garlic for the best impact.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors in the custard; adjust to taste based on preference.
• Parsley – Adds freshness and vibrant color to the custard; feel free to swap for another herb if desired.
• Paprika – Adds subtle warmth; skip it altogether for a milder flavor.
For the Topping
• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top for an added savory touch and texture; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute.
These Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are bound to become a favorite—warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your delicious journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a warm environment for your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns, allowing them to bake evenly. Preheating is crucial to achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior. Set a timer for when you’re ready to pop the buns in—your kitchen will soon be filled with mouthwatering aromas!
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Carefully take the King’s Hawaiian rolls and make four cuts per roll—two perpendicular and two diagonal. This creates small pockets for the creamy filling. Use a sharp serrated knife to avoid squashing the rolls, ensuring clean cuts. After cutting, set them aside on a cutting board, and prepare for the flavorful filling that awaits.
Step 3: Optional Drying
If you find the rolls to be too soft, let them dry out for approximately 2 hours. This drying process helps with absorbing the custard and enhances the textures of the final Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns. Place the rolls in a cool, dry place while you prepare the cream cheese filling.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth and creamy mixture. Blend them together until well-combined, ensuring a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory garlic. Once mixed, transfer this luscious filling into a piping bag for easy application.
Step 5: Fill the Rolls
Carefully pipe the cream cheese filling into each of the cuts of the rolls, filling them generously but avoiding overflow. Each roll should be bursting with creamy goodness once filled. As you fill, envision the delightful bites that await you in the finished Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns—smooth and rich!
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg (if using), milk, sweetened condensed milk, minced garlic, salt, parsley, and paprika until well-combined. This custard mixture will coat the rolls and infuse them with savory garlic goodness. Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly to create a rich and flavorful custard.
Step 7: Dip the Filled Rolls
One by one, dip each filled roll into the custard mixture for about 2 seconds per side. Allow the excess custard to drip off before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is essential for ensuring your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are packed with flavor while maintaining a delightful texture as they bake.
Step 8: Brush with Garlic Butter
Using a brush, apply any leftover garlic from the custard on top of the dipped rolls. This adds an extra burst of flavor that enhances the savory notes of the Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns. Visualize the delightful golden finish your buns will achieve, promising to be irresistibly tasty!
Step 9: Add Parmesan Topping
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each roll, providing a savory coating that will melt beautifully during baking. This added layer creates a fantastic contrast to the softness of the filling and the crispiness of the bun. Just a little sprinkle can elevate the flavor profile to new heights!
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Place your prepared buns in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you’ll know they’re done when they turn golden brown and fragrant. The combination of savory garlic and sweet cream cheese aromas will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for that first bite!
What to Serve with Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
These delightful buns are more than just a treat on their own; they can enhance any meal with their unique flavor.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness perfectly complements the savory garlic flavor of the buns. Pairing them together creates an indulgent meal that feels cozy and comforting.
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Hearty Tomato Soup: The tangy acidity of tomato soup balances the sweetness of the cream cheese filling, making it a great dip for your buns. Imagine the warm, soothing embrace of soup mingling with the garlic aroma as you savor each bite.
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Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables: These vibrant veggies add a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft buns while mirroring the garlic flavor. The added touch of herbs elevates the overall meal experience.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crispy salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that cuts through the rich flavors of the buns. Consider adding nuts or seeds to enhance texture and flavor.
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Sizzling Korean BBQ: Serve the buns alongside marinated meats or grilled veggies for a fun, shareable feast. The sweetness of the buns harmonizes with savory BBQ flavors, creating irresistible bites.
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Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: A drizzle of this sweet and spicy sauce can elevate the buns into a flavorful appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining guests—your taste buds will thank you!
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Iced Green Tea: Its refreshing taste makes it a lovely beverage to wash down the rich flavors of the buns. Enjoying a cold drink helps cleanse the palate between bites.
With these pairings, your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns will shine in any meal setting!
How to Store and Freeze Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
Room Temperature: Store your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. However, be aware that refrigeration might affect their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, maintaining that perfect crispy exterior.
Expert Tips for Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
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Sharp Knife Rule: Always use a serrated knife for cutting rolls to prevent them from squishing and losing shape during preparation.
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Drying Time: If your rolls are too soft, allow them to dry out for about 2 hours before filling. This helps them absorb the custard better.
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Filling Balance: Be mindful not to overfill the rolls with cream cheese. Adjust according to your taste preferences for a delightful experience.
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Custard Coating: Dip each roll briefly in the custard mixture—around 2 seconds per side—to ensure optimal flavor without overpowering the bread’s texture.
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Baking Watch: Keep a close eye on the buns as they bake. They should be golden brown and aromatic, indicating they’re ready to enjoy!
These Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns will impress your family and make any meal feel special. Enjoy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are a fantastic meal prep option! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this keeps the flavors intact and ensures it’s fresh when you’re ready to assemble. Additionally, you can cut the rolls and let them dry for about 2 hours before refrigerating them, enhancing their texture. When it’s time to bake, fill the rolls with the cream cheese mixture, dip them in the custard, and follow the baking instructions. They’ll turn out just as delicious, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings!
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delightful buns; the possibilities are endless!
- Vegan Option: Use non-dairy cream cheese and omit the egg for a completely plant-based alternative without losing flavor.
- Different Buns: Swap King’s Hawaiian rolls with brioche sliders or homemade dough for a unique twist that can change the texture.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the cream cheese filling for a gooey, cheesy surprise!
- Add Heat: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the garlic custard for a spicy kick that’ll make taste buds dance.
- Roasted Garlic: Choose roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter, more mellow flavor, perfect for those who like a less pungent taste.
- Herbaceous Boost: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or basil to the garlic custard for a burst of freshness that ties everything together.
- Sweet and Savory: Mix a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the cream cheese filling for an irresistible contrast to the savory flavors.
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to the custard for a deep, smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the garlic.
Every bite of these Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns can be a new experience—just one of the many reasons to love sharing them with friends and family. If you’re looking for other creative twists in your kitchen, take a look at my Sweet Coconut Cream or Pimento Cheese Hash recipes for more inspiration!
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right rolls for the recipe?
Absolutely! The best choice for these buns is King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls due to their soft and sweet structure. If you prefer a different texture, you can opt for brioche sliders, which also add a delightful richness to the recipe.
How should I store leftover Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns?
You can store your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, though this might slightly alter their texture.
Can I freeze Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns?
Very! To freeze your buns, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This method will protect them from freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat these buns?
For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the buns for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore their crispy exterior while warming the creamy filling beautifully—just like fresh from the oven!
Can I omit the egg for dietary considerations?
Yes! If you’re looking for a vegan version of these delicious Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns, you can easily skip the egg in the custard mixture. Instead, consider using a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer to maintain a similar consistency if you like.
What if I have allergies to garlic or dairy?
If you’re allergic to garlic, you can try using roasted garlic, which is milder, or completely omit it and add some herbs for flavor. For dairy allergies, opt for non-dairy cream cheese and vegan butter. Additionally, nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese to keep the flavor profile rich without using dairy.
Heavenly Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns You Can't Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully cut the King's Hawaiian rolls with four cuts per roll to create pockets for the filling.
- Let the rolls dry for about 2 hours if too soft.
- Mix the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and salt until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag.
- Pipe the cream cheese filling into each roll generously.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg (if using), milk, garlic, salt, parsley, and paprika.
- Dip each filled roll into the custard mixture for about 2 seconds per side and let excess drip off.
- Brush leftover garlic from the custard on top of the rolls.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each roll.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
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