Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that’s absolutely bursting with flavor and charm, look no further than this delightful Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe. These buns combine a tender, fluffy bread base with a luscious cream cheese filling studded with fresh strawberries, all crowned with a signature golden pineapple-style topping that’s lightly crisped to perfection. Every bite is a beautiful dance of sweet, tangy, and buttery notes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re making them for a cozy brunch or a special afternoon snack, these buns will quickly become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential. Each one plays a key role—from the soft cream cheese and juicy strawberries that create that irresistible filling to the staple pantry items that craft the perfect bun texture and that iconic pineapple topping.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your buns for soft, fluffy bread.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweet touch to balance flavors.
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully and become airy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup warm milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender during baking.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Infuses richness and flakiness to the buns.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds structure to the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a hint of aromatic sweetness.
• 1/4 cup water (optional): Adjusts dough consistency to perfect softness.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a smooth, creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without graininess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling for added depth.
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced: Brings freshness and bursts of fruity goodness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Works with sugar to form the fluffy pineapple topping.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and texture to the topping.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Gives body and structure to the topping’s crumbly layer.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps keep the topping light and tender.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Leavens the topping just enough for a delicate crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the topping’s flavor with subtle sweetness.
• Yellow food coloring (optional): Achieves the classic golden pineapple bun look that’s iconic and inviting.

How to Make Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bun Dough

Begin by combining flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This combination forms the foundation of your buns, setting the stage for that perfect texture and sweetness.

Step 2: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add warm milk, softened butter, the egg, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Mix everything until the dough just starts to come together—it’s the first sign your buns are on their way.

Step 3: Knead for Perfection

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes. This process develops the gluten, making the dough smooth and elastic, which results in soft and airy buns. Add water a little at a time if the dough feels too stiff.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size. This rise is crucial as it infuses the dough with air pockets, ensuring that delightful fluffiness.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While the dough is rising, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the diced strawberries, making sure every bite contains delicious, fresh fruit.

Step 6: Make the Pineapple Topping

Cream the softened butter and sugar in another bowl until light and fluffy. Add flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. For the iconic golden pineapple look, add a few drops of yellow food coloring. This topping creates the signature crackly crust that makes these buns stand out.

Step 7: Shape and Fill the Buns

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a smooth ball, flatten into a disc, then spoon in a generous amount of the cream cheese and strawberry filling. Carefully fold the edges over the filling, pinching the dough to seal the buns fully.

Step 8: Coat with Pineapple Topping and Second Rise

Place the sealed buns seam-side down on a lined baking tray. Gently roll each bun in the pineapple topping mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This topping acts both as a protective crust and the delightful crunch at the top. Allow the buns to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and slightly larger.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the buns for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops turn a warm golden brown with the topping lightly cracked and crisped.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Let the buns cool just enough to handle without losing their warmth. Serve these beauties while still slightly warm to enjoy the soft bun and melty cream cheese filling at its absolute best.

How to Serve Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the buns to add an elegant touch, or place an extra slice of fresh strawberry on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness. A mint leaf can also elevate the look and flavor delightfully.

Side Dishes

Pair these buns with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee to balance the sweetness. For a more indulgent experience, a side of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream complements the rich cream cheese filling wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe into a charming breakfast spread by serving them in a wicker basket lined with colorful napkins. Or slice the buns in half and toast them lightly for a delightful variation, spreading a little butter to enhance flavors even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh so you can enjoy the same delightful texture the next day without needing to bake fresh.

Freezing

If you want to save the buns for longer, freeze them by wrapping each bun tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to one month without losing their flavor or texture.

Reheating

To get that fresh-baked warmth back, thaw frozen buns overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 325°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes. Alternatively, a quick 15-second zap in the microwave will do in a pinch but might soften the topping slightly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

While fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the filling soggy.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the milk with any plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I prepare the buns without yellow food coloring?

Absolutely. The yellow coloring is purely for aesthetic purposes mimicking pineapple buns’ iconic look. Your buns will still taste wonderful without it, just a bit less visually traditional.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffed up and airy. You can do a simple poke test—if the indentation springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Can I add other fruits or fillings instead of strawberries?

Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches would be fantastic in the cream cheese filling. Just make sure to adjust the amount to avoid overly wet fillings that can affect the dough.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns Recipe enough—it’s truly a joy to make and even more rewarding to eat. The delightful blend of soft buns, luscious cream cheese, and juicy strawberries makes every bite special. So next time you want to impress your loved ones or indulge in a sweet homemade treat, give this recipe a go. Trust me, once you try it, these buns will become one of your favorite baked treasures!

Print