If you have a soft spot for sweet, fluffy buns with an indulgent filling, then you absolutely must try this Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe. It’s a delightful treat that perfectly balances the fruity brightness of fresh strawberries with the rich creaminess of smooth cream cheese, all encased in a tender bun crowned with a golden pineapple-inspired topping. Each bite bursts with layers of flavor and texture, making it an irresistible favorite for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. Trust me, once you make these buns, they’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, staple ingredients is the first step to creating this bakery-style delight at home. Every component adds its own magic, from the soft dough to the luscious filling and that iconic pineapple topping that gives these buns their charming look and irresistible texture.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, fluffy bun that’s just the right texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds gentle sweetness to the dough for balance and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast: Helps the buns rise beautifully to a light and airy consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the dough balanced.
- 1/2 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and brings moisture to the dough for softness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and tenderness to every bite.
- 1 large egg: For structure and that lovely golden color in the finished buns.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, sweet aroma to the dough.
- 1/4 cup water (if needed): To adjust dough consistency for the perfect elasticity.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy star in the filling, delivering lusciousness in each bite.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Adds depth and a subtle fragrance to the filling.
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced: The fruity charm that makes the filling burst with freshness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for topping): Creates a light, crumbly pineapple-style topping.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping): Sweetens the topping and helps it crisp up nicely.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Provides structure and a slight crunch.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Gives the topping a tender, crumbly finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps lighten the pineapple topping texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping): Adds a gentle sweet flavor to round out the topping.
- Yellow food coloring (optional): For that signature golden pineapple look that makes these buns instantly recognizable.
How to Make Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bun Dough
Start by combining the key dry ingredients – flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt – in a large bowl. Then add warm milk, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix gently until the dough begins to come together.
Step 2: Knead and Let Rise
Knead your dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too stiff, add a splash of water to loosen it up. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size – usually about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese and Strawberry Filling
While the dough is rising, whip together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Fold in the diced fresh strawberries gently, making sure to keep those little fruit bursts evenly throughout the filling. Set aside and let those flavors meld.
Step 4: Make the Pineapple Topping
Next, take the softened butter and sugar and cream them until fluffy. Add the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and vanilla extract and mix well to form a thick crumbly dough. If you want to mimic the golden pineapple color, mix in a few drops of yellow food coloring. Set this golden topping aside; it’s about to make your buns look irresistible.
Step 5: Assemble the Buns
Once your dough has risen fully, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into twelve equal portions, rolling each into smooth balls and then flattening them into discs. Spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese and strawberry filling onto each disc’s center, then fold the edges carefully to seal in the filling.
Step 6: Coat with Pineapple Topping and Second Rise
Place the sealed buns seam side down on a parchment-lined baking tray. Roll each bun in the pineapple topping mixture so they’re fully coated with that sweet, crumbly crust. Allow them to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and ready to bake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake the buns for 18 to 20 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown with the topping slightly cracked and crisp. Remove from the oven and let them cool just enough to enjoy warm bites of pure joy.
How to Serve Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle a few finely diced strawberries or even a little powdered sugar over the buns right before serving. A light brush of melted butter can add shine and tinge of indulgence to the golden topping.
Side Dishes
This Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe is perfect alongside a fresh cup of tea or coffee. Fruit salads, yogurt, or even a chilled glass of milk make great companions, balancing the rich flavors with cool, refreshing notes.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a brunch or special gathering, arrange these buns on a pretty platter lined with fresh strawberry halves and mint leaves. You could also split them in half for mini sandwiches or add a drizzle of honey or berry compote to amp up their sweetness and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover buns stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the buns soft and the filling creamy without drying out the crumbly pineapple topping.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap buns individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen buns maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked taste and texture, warm the buns in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the topping soggy rather than delightfully crisp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Fresh strawberries are best for maintaining that perfect texture and bright flavor, but if you only have frozen, thaw them completely and drain excess moisture thoroughly before folding into the cream cheese.
Is yellow food coloring necessary for the pineapple topping?
It’s optional, but it really helps mimic the classic look of pineapple buns. If you prefer to skip artificial colors, the topping will still taste amazing, just without the golden hue.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and complete the first rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before continuing with assembly for fresher buns the next day.
What if I’m allergic to dairy?
You can substitute dairy ingredients like butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan butter and cream cheese, to keep this recipe dairy-free without sacrificing texture.
Why do the buns have a pineapple topping if there is no pineapple inside?
The pineapple topping is named for its cracked, golden appearance resembling pineapple skin, not the fruit content. It adds a crunchy, sweet contrast to the soft buns and creamy filling.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe is a beautiful blend of textures, flavors, and colors that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or surprise loved ones with a homemade delight, these buns are the perfect choice. Give them a try, and I promise they’ll quickly become a treasured favorite in your recipe collection. Happy baking!
Print
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese Bakery Style
Description
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns are soft, fluffy buns filled with a rich cream cheese and fresh strawberry mixture, topped with a signature sweet and crumbly pineapple-style crust. These buns combine a tender dough with a fruity, creamy center and a golden, crackly topping that resembles a pineapple’s texture and appearance, making them a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.
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 form the dry ingredient base for your dough.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm milk, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until the dough starts coming together.
- Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too stiff, add water a little at a time to reach the right consistency.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add Strawberries: Gently fold the diced fresh strawberries into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Set aside.
- Prepare Pineapple Topping: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients for Topping: Add flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until completely combined.
- Add Color: If desired, add a few drops of yellow food coloring to the topping mixture to create the signature pineapple golden hue.
- Set Topping Aside: Leave the prepared topping mixture ready for use in assembling the buns.
- Divide Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 12 equal portions.
- Shape Dough: Roll each portion into a smooth ball, then flatten into a disc shape.
- Add Filling: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese and strawberry filling in the center of each dough disc. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch the dough to seal tightly.
- Arrange on Baking Tray: Place the filled buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Coat Buns with Topping: Roll each filled bun into the pineapple topping mixture so it is evenly coated with a thick crumbly layer on top.
- Second Rise: Allow the buns to rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy and slightly enlarged.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake Buns: Bake the buns for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and the topping has slightly cracked.
- Cool Slightly: Remove from oven and let the buns cool a little before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the strawberry and cream cheese pineapple buns warm for the best experience of their soft texture and delicious filling.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Kneading is crucial for elastic dough; don’t rush this step.
- The yellow food coloring in the topping is optional but helps create the classic pineapple bun appearance.
- Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, but frozen, thawed strawberries can be used if fresh aren’t available.
- Make sure to seal the buns tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Serve buns warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently before eating.
