The aroma hit me like a warm hug, transporting me straight into the heart of a bustling Korean bakery. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns—an irresistible fusion of flavors that transforms ordinary garlic bread into something truly extraordinary. These buns feature a heavenly sweet cream cheese filling, enveloped in fluffy rolls and topped with creamy garlic custard that’s simply unforgettable. Not only are they a show-stopping dish for gatherings, but they also boast a quick prep time, making them perfect for a cozy night in. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—feel free to swap out the Hawaiian rolls for brioche sliders if you prefer a different texture. Ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful treat? Let’s dive into the recipe and unlock this flavor sensation together!
Why are Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns irresistible?
Heavenly Flavor Combination: These buns offer a unique blend of sweet cream cheese and savory garlic, creating a flavor profile you’ll crave again and again.
Quick and Easy: With a straightforward method, you’ll have these delectable treats ready in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy evenings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap Hawaiian rolls for brioche sliders or add a spicy twist with red pepper flakes—customize to your taste!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a party or a family get-together, these buns are sure to be the star of the show, delighting guests of all ages.
Perfect for Sharing: Their shareable nature makes them ideal for any occasion; simply pull apart and enjoy with friends!
For a deeper dive into cooking, check out our guide on bread-making techniques.
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns Ingredients
For the Buns
- King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls – These serve as the soft, sweet foundation of the recipe; consider letting them dry out for better texture.
- Cream Cheese – This brings richness and creaminess; swap with ricotta or mascarpone for a different twist.
For the Filling
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds an extra sweetness and creaminess to the filling; coconut cream is a fantastic dairy-free substitute.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; if watching sodium, feel free to omit.
For the Garlic Custard
- Butter – Provides richness and helps achieve a golden crust; vegan butter works well for plant-based options.
- Egg – Binds the mixture and aids in setting during baking; for a vegan alternative, you can leave this out.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the custard; non-dairy milk is a great swap if needed.
- Garlic – The star flavor! Use fresh for a vibrant taste; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Parsley – Adds a fresh herby note; you may omit if you don’t have it on hand.
- Paprika – Introduces color and a subtle spice; consider chili powder or smoked paprika as alternatives.
- Parmesan Cheese – This savory topping elevates the dish; nutritional yeast makes for a nice dairy-free substitute.
These Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are not just a treat for your taste buds, but they also carry the warmth of home cooking that everyone loves!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures optimal baking conditions for your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns, allowing them to rise beautifully and develop a crispy exterior. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets lined with parchment paper to prepare for the rolls.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Take each King’s Hawaiian roll and carefully cut it into 8 sections, making a “+” shape followed by diagonal cuts. Be sure to leave the rolls intact at the bottom to hold your delicious filling. This technique creates perfect little pockets for the sweet cream cheese to nestle in, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Dry the Rolls
Once cut, place the rolls on a cooling rack or a parchment-lined surface, and let them sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. Drying them slightly enhances the texture, allowing your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns to achieve that delightful crust while soaking in the garlic custard.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend together the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This sweet and savory filling will bring a luscious richness to your buns. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag for easy filling, making sure to gather all the creamy goodness at one end.
Step 5: Fill the Rolls
Carefully pipe the cream cheese filling into each cut of the rolls, allowing the sweet mixture to seep into every crevice. Fill each section generously, ensuring that every bite of your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns is filled with that creamy goodness. Don’t worry about overflow; it adds to the charm!
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, milk, sweetened condensed milk, minced garlic, salt, chopped parsley, and paprika until fully combined. This garlic custard brings a savory richness that envelops your filled rolls, making them even more irresistible when baked to golden perfection.
Step 7: Dip the Rolls
Taking each filled roll, briefly dip it into the garlic custard mixture, ensuring each side is coated for about two seconds. This quick dip infuses the custard into the bread, adding depth and flavor to your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns while creating a delightful crust when baked.
Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Position the dipped rolls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them comfortably apart. Sprinkle each roll with a generous amount of parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor. The cheese will melt and create a beautifully browned topping that enhances the overall presentation of your buns.
Step 9: Bake the Buns
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and aromatic. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time; visual cues of doneness include a crispy exterior and a delightful garlicky scent filling your kitchen.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. This will enhance the texture, making them perfect for pulling apart. Serve warm as a delightful side dish or appetizer, and watch them disappear!
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on these delicious buns with these fun variations!
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Dairy-Free: Swap the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or cashew cream for a rich, plant-based option.
Perfect for those following a dairy-free lifestyle, these alternatives maintain creaminess without sacrificing flavor. -
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes into the cream cheese filling for a delightful heat that enhances the savory garlic.
Your taste buds will appreciate this little zing, making every bite an exciting adventure. -
Different Cheeses: Substitute goat cheese or feta instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist.
These cheeses will add a unique flavor profile and pair beautifully with the sweet and savory elements of the dish. -
Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh chives or green onions into the garlic custard for a fresh, vibrant note.
Herbs not only add brightness but elevate the overall aroma, making each bun a sensory delight. -
Vegan Option: Omit the egg and replace dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a fully vegan bun.
You can still achieve that light and fluffy texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat. -
Sweet Twist: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the buns before serving for a sweet burst of flavor.
This unexpected addition can make the bun even more indulgent and delightful for those with a sweet tooth. -
Different Bread: Experiment by using brioche sliders or even sourdough rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls for varied texture and taste.
Each type of bread has its own character, transforming your buns into a completely different culinary experience. -
Garlic Powder: In a pinch, replace fresh garlic with garlic powder for a more subtle flavor.
It’s a great tip for those who may not have fresh garlic on hand—just remember to adjust the quantity accordingly!
Don’t hesitate to explore even more ideas! You might want to team these buns with a refreshing dip like a zesty garlic aioli or serve them alongside yourself a lovely warm bowl of tomato soup for an unforgettable pairing.
Expert Tips for Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
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Sharp Knife Use: Using a sharp serrated knife for cutting the rolls ensures clean cuts, which makes filling easier and maintains the roll’s shape.
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Drying Time: Allowing the rolls to dry at room temperature for 2 hours enhances their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when dipped in the custard.
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Custard Coating: Dip the filled rolls quickly in the garlic custard mixture to avoid over-saturation; just two seconds on each side works perfectly for flavor and texture.
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Garlic Freshness: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor; if using garlic powder in a pinch, remember to adjust the amount since it’s more concentrated.
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Storing Leftovers: For the best taste experience, consume your Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns within 2 days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheating in the oven restores their crispiness.
What to Serve with Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
These delightful buns are not only satisfying on their own but can also be part of a memorable meal that combines flavors and textures beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes contrasts nicely with the fluffy buns. Top with garlic-infused butter for an extra touch.
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Asian-Inspired Salad: A crunchy salad with a sesame dressing offers a bright and refreshing contrast to the buns’ savory richness. The crisp greens lighten the meal perfectly.
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Spicy Kimchi: This fermented side adds a zesty, spicy kick that pairs well with the sweet and savory buns, balancing flavors and enriching your dining experience.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp: Juicy shrimp coated in garlic butter echo the bun’s flavors while adding protein, making for a hearty meal. Serve with crusty bread for a true feast.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting, umami-rich accompaniment, perfect for dipping those fluffy buns.
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Sweet Red Bean Paste Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with this traditional dessert that complements the flavors of the buns. Its natural sweetness and smooth texture create a memorable finish.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay offers a refreshing balance to the savory flavors of the buns, enhancing the overall dining experience. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
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Fruit Platter: A vibrant selection of seasonal fruits adds a fresh, juicy element that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the buns, rounding out the meal with vibrant colors and flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns
Room Temperature: Store leftover buns in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days. Use a clean kitchen towel to cover them lightly to maintain moisture without making them soggy.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the buns in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to a week. This helps preserve their flavor and texture, but they may become slightly less crispy.
Freezer: Freeze Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns for up to 3 months. Wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven to restore their delightful crispiness.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the buns for about 10–15 minutes or until warm and crispy again. This will rejuvenate the flavors and texture beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cut the Hawaiian rolls and allow them to dry out as instructed, up to 2 hours ahead of time. To maintain their delicious quality, assemble the rolls by piping the filling into the cuts just before dipping them in the garlic custard mixture. When ready to serve, dip them in the custard and bake as directed for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right rolls for my Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns?
I recommend using King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls for their sweetness and softness, which complement the cream cheese filling beautifully. If you’re looking for a slight change in texture, brioche sliders also work wonderfully. Just be sure to let any rolls dry out for about 2 hours at room temperature to enhance the texture before filling.
What is the best way to store Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns?
You can store leftover buns in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel to keep moisture in without making them soggy. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, but be aware they may lose some crispiness.
Can I freeze Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes. This helps restore their delightful crispiness.
What should I do if my garlic custard mixture settles at the bottom?
If you notice the garlic clumping at the bottom of your custard, don’t worry! Before dipping your buns, just give the mixture a quick whisk to reincorporate the garlic and ensure an even distribution. If needed, you can also brush any excess garlic from the bottom of the bowl onto the buns before baking to boost that irresistible garlic flavor.
Are Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these buns are vegetarian-friendly! The recipe features cream cheese and other delicious ingredients that do not include meat or animal products. However, if you’re looking to adapt for special dietary needs, you can use vegan substitutes for the butter and egg without compromising taste!
Can I use different cheeses for the filling?
Of course! While cream cheese provides a rich and creamy texture, feel free to experiment by substituting with ricotta or mascarpone for a slight flavor twist. For a stronger taste, you might even try feta or goat cheese, which can add a delightful tang. The more the merrier!
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns for the Perfect Snack Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Cut each King's Hawaiian roll into 8 sections while keeping the base intact.
- Let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 2 hours to dry.
- Blend cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Pipe the cream cheese filling into each cut of the rolls generously.
- Whisk together butter, egg, milk, sweetened condensed milk, minced garlic, salt, parsley, and paprika until combined.
- Dip each filled roll into the garlic custard mixture for about two seconds on each side.
- Arrange dipped rolls on the baking sheet and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Bake for approximately 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm.
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