If you have ever dreamed of biting into a pillowy soft bun bursting with a luscious cream cheese center and vibrant strawberry bits, this Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Bun Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful Chinese bakery-style treat perfectly balances a crunchy, sweet pineapple crust with a creamy, tangy strawberry filling that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings together simple pantry staples with fresh ingredients to create a stunning dessert that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first joyful step toward crafting these irresistible buns. Each one plays a crucial role, from lending structure and softness to adding that signature sweet, creamy, and tangy flavor combination.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for our tender bun dough.
- 2 tablespoons milk powder: Enhances the dough’s richness and color.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the bread.
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast: The magic that makes the dough rise and get fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the dough.
- ¾ cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and moistens the dough.
- 1 large egg: Gives richness and structure to the bun dough.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Keeps the dough tender and flavorful.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) for topping: For that luscious pineapple crust.
- ½ cup powdered sugar (topping): Provides sweetness and crispness in the topping.
- 1 large egg yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the topping ingredients.
- 1 cup cake flour: Gives the topping its delicate texture.
- 1 tablespoon milk powder (topping): Deepens flavor and browning.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the topping with a warm aroma.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): The creamy heart of the bun filling.
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (filling): Sweetens the cream cheese without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Offers a subtle zing to brighten the filling.
- ½ cup chopped fresh strawberries: Burst of juicy freshness inside every bite.
How to Make Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Bun Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bun Dough
Start by combining your dry ingredients: flour, milk powder, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the warm milk and add the egg, then knead the mixture until it starts coming together as a dough. Next, incorporate the softened butter and continue kneading for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, then let it rise in a warm spot for approximately one hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step ensures the buns will be soft and fluffy.
Step 2: Make the Pineapple Topping
While the dough rises, whip up the classic pineapple topping. Beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy, then mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Sift in the cake flour and milk powder, gently folding the ingredients until a soft dough forms. Shape this dough into a log, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This topping will give the buns their signature crackly, golden pineapple-like crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese and Strawberry Filling
Blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Carefully fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, making sure not to mash them — you want little bursts of strawberry throughout the filling. Chill this mixture until you’re ready to use it, as a cold filling prevents leaking during baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Buns
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide it evenly into eight pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disc and spoon about one tablespoon of the cream cheese and strawberry filling into the center. Carefully pinch the dough edges to seal the filling inside and roll into smooth balls. Place the buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to rest for 30 minutes so they can relax and puff up just a bit.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the pineapple topping dough from the fridge and slice it into eight equal discs. Gently press one disc on top of each bun, making sure it adheres well. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the buns have risen and the pineapple crust turns golden brown and crackly. Let the buns cool slightly before diving in for that best possible texture and flavor experience.
How to Serve Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Bun Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of elegance and freshness, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh strawberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top right before serving. You can also glaze the top with a little apricot jam heated in the microwave to give it a subtle shine and sweetness.
Side Dishes
This bun pairs beautifully with a simple cup of jasmine tea, green tea, or even a creamy latte. For a brunch spread, complement it with fresh fruit salad or a light citrusy yogurt parfait to highlight the strawberry and cream cheese flavors inside.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing these buns in half lengthwise to showcase the creamy, strawberry-filled center. You could also turn them into mini sandwiches by adding a sliver of fresh strawberry and a leaf of mint for a colorful and refreshing bite, perfect for parties or afternoon tea. If you want to impress guests, plate them alongside edible flowers or delicate berry coulis drizzles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For best texture, avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the buns, but if your kitchen is warm, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
These buns freeze wonderfully. Wrap each bun tightly with plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag or airtight container, and freeze for up to one month. This makes the Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Bun Recipe a great option for baking ahead and enjoying later.
Reheating
To reheat, let frozen buns thaw at room temperature, then warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave briefly, but be cautious to avoid drying out the filling. Warming brings back that wonderful contrast of warm, soft bread with creamy filling and crisp topping.
FAQs
What is a pineapple bun if it doesn’t have real pineapple?
The pineapple bun is named for its crackly, golden topping that resembles the exterior of a pineapple. Despite the name, it doesn’t contain actual pineapple but is beloved for that crispy textured crust paired with soft bread inside.
Can I substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones?
While fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor in the filling, frozen berries can be used if thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture leaking during baking.
Is it necessary to chill the pineapple topping dough?
Yes, chilling the topping dough helps firm it up, making it easier to slice and shaping that signature crisp crust after baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute dairy milk with your preferred plant-based milk, replace the butter with vegan butter, and use a vegan cream cheese alternative. Also, you can use a flax egg instead of chicken eggs.
How long will the buns stay fresh after baking?
Freshly baked Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns are best enjoyed within two days when stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain softness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making the Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Bun Recipe from scratch and sharing it with friends or family. From the tender bun to the sweet, creamy strawberry filling and that iconic pineapple crust, every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite bakery-style treat to brighten any day or special occasion.
Print
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Bun Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 buns
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the classic Chinese bakery favorite with a creative twist: Strawberry and Cream Cheese Pineapple Buns. These soft, sweet buns are topped with a crunchy, golden pineapple-style crust and filled with a luscious mixture of cream cheese and fresh strawberries, offering a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and baked textures.
Ingredients
For the Bun Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons milk powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
For the Pineapple Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 tablespoon milk powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ cup chopped fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, milk powder, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk and whole egg and knead together until a rough dough forms. Then, incorporate the softened unsalted butter and continue kneading for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Make the Pineapple Topping: Beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract thoroughly. Sift together the cake flour and milk powder, then fold into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms. Shape the topping dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries to incorporate them evenly. Refrigerate the filling until you are ready to use it.
- Shape the Buns: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece gently and place approximately 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese and strawberry filling in the center. Seal the dough around the filling and shape into smooth balls. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rest for 30 minutes to rise slightly.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the topping dough from the refrigerator and slice it into 8 equal discs. Place one disc gently on top of each bun, pressing lightly to adhere. Bake the buns for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown color. Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Keep the cream cheese filling chilled to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- The pineapple topping resembles the look of a pineapple’s surface but does not contain any pineapple.
- Enjoy these buns warm for the best texture and flavor, or at room temperature for a delightful snack.
