There’s something utterly irresistible about soft, fluffy buns bursting with creamy cheesecake and sweet apple filling, topped with a crunchy crumble and drizzled with a luscious glaze. That’s exactly what makes the Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe such a showstopper in my kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend brunch or a sweet afternoon treat, these buns bring together the best of creamy, fruity, and buttery flavors in every bite.

I remember the first time I baked these, the house smelled like heaven for hours, and the warm cinnamon-apple scent practically drew everyone into the kitchen. What makes this Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe truly special is how approachable it is—you don’t need to be a baking pro to whip up something that tastes like it came from a bakery. Plus, the crumble and sweet glaze offer that extra WOW factor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe plays its part to make the flavor and texture perfect. The warm milk helps activate the yeast, giving you soft buns, while the cream cheese adds the rich cheesecake filling we all love.

Warm milk: Make sure it’s just warm to touch, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
Active dry yeast: The magic behind the fluffy bun texture—be patient while it activates.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure but keeps the buns tender and soft.
Cream cheese: Use full-fat for the creamiest cheesecake filling experience.
Medium apples: I like tart apples like Granny Smith to balance sweetness, but any firm apple works.
Powdered sugar (for glaze): It dissolves smoothly, giving that beautiful sweet finish.
Unsalted butter: Key for richness and making that buttery crumble topping irresistible.

Variations

One of the things I love about the Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings to make this treat your own!

Spiced Variation: I sometimes add cinnamon or nutmeg into the apple filling for a warm, cozy vibe that takes these buns next level.
Dairy-free Swap: For friends with dietary needs, swapping cream cheese and butter for plant-based alternatives works surprisingly well.
Fruit Swap: If apples aren’t your favorite, try pears or berries for a twist that still gets great results.

How to Make Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by warming your milk until it’s comfortably warm—not too hot, or it might kill the yeast. Sprinkle your active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until you see it bubble and foam. This proofing step is key for that perfect rise in your buns, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with the activated yeast mixture until a soft dough forms. Knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. I like to knead by hand here because you can really feel when the dough is just right. Place it back in the bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling & Apple Layer

While the dough rises, soften your cream cheese by leaving it out to reach room temperature. Peel and finely dice your apples. I usually sauté the apples lightly with a bit of butter to soften them and enhance their natural sweetness. Once ready, mix the softened cream cheese with a small portion of powdered sugar to sweeten it gently—taste and adjust as you go.

Step 4: Shape the Buns

Once your dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread your cheesecake mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the softened apples on top. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut it into equal-sized buns—usually about 8 to 10 pieces. Place these cut buns into a greased baking dish, cover, and let them proof again for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Crumble Topping

While your buns are proofing, mix softened unsalted butter with flour and a bit of sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crumble topping generously over the buns right before baking. This topping is what gives these buns their delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling inside.

Step 6: Bake and Glaze

Bake your buns at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top and your kitchen smells amazing. While they bake, make your sweet glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a touch of milk until it reaches a smooth, drizzle-worthy consistency. Once your buns are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze all over them for a shiny, sweet finish.

How to Serve Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe

Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top alongside the glaze to elevate the sweetness without overpowering the apple notes. For a special touch, fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon can add both color and flavor.

Side Dishes

These buns are delightful on their own, but if I’m serving breakfast or brunch, I pair them with a crisp green salad or a small bowl of vanilla yogurt and fresh berries to balance their richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I’ve arranged these buns in a circular pattern on a cake stand, drizzling extra glaze on top and scattering thin apple slices and edible flowers around for a wow-worthy centerpiece. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, but they rarely last that long. If you want to keep them fresher longer, refrigerate them, though I recommend warming before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

These buns freeze beautifully! I usually freeze them once fully cooled and glazed (wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil). When I want a treat, I thaw them overnight in the fridge or gently warm them straight from the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the buns in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds if I’m in a rush. This brings back that soft dough texture and melts the glaze just enough to refresh their freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for the Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make your buns soggy. Sautéing thawed apples briefly also helps reduce moisture and enhances flavor.
How long do the Apple Cheesecake Buns stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for about 2 days. Refrigeration extends freshness to about 4-5 days, but warming before eating is best.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a trusted gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that works well with yeast doughs. The dough might be a bit more delicate, so handle with care and monitor rising times closely.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe has become a favorite in my home because it feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combo of soft dough, creamy filling, tart apples, crumbly topping, and sweet glaze strikes a perfect balance every time. If you’re looking for a comforting but impressive treat to share with friends or family, I can’t recommend these buns enough—grab your ingredients and give them a try, you’ll be so glad you did!

Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe

★★★★★ 5 from 70 reviews

Author: Touba
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 8 buns 1x
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delightful Apple Cheesecake Buns featuring a soft yeast dough filled with a smooth cream cheese and apple mixture, topped with a crunchy crumble and finished with a sweet powdered sugar glaze. Perfectly balanced textures and flavors make these buns a delicious treat for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

¾ cup warm milk
1 packet active dry yeast
2½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsalted butter

Filling

6 oz cream cheese, softened
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped

Topping & Glaze

¼ cup unsalted butter (for crumble topping)
½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

Instructions

Prepare the yeast dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with the active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the yeast mixture and softened butter. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, peel and finely chop the apples. Mix the chopped apples with the softened cream cheese until well combined. Set aside.
Make the crumble topping: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with a portion of flour and sugar (if any, although not listed – for typical crumble top you mix butter and flour to make crumbs). Alternatively, pre-made crumble or use just softened butter to dot on top.
Shape and fill the buns: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 12×8 inches. Spread the cream cheese and apple filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 8 equal pieces. Place the buns cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Add the crumble topping: Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the top of each bun.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the glaze: While the buns are baking, mix the powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or water (about 1-2 tablespoons) to create a smooth glaze.
Glaze the buns: When the buns are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the sweet glaze over the top to finish.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
If the crumble topping is too soft, chill it briefly before sprinkling.
These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different fruit flavor.
Adjust sweetness in the glaze by adding or reducing powdered sugar.

Keywords: apple cheesecake buns, yeast dough buns, crumble topping, sweet glaze, breakfast pastry, dessert buns