Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze offer a delightful twist on traditional pastries. These warm, soft buns are filled with creamy cheesecake and spiced apples, all topped with a buttery crumble and sweet glaze. Perfect for cozy gatherings or weekend brunches, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of flavors makes these buns a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze
These buns are not just delicious; they bring comfort and joy to any occasion.
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spiced apples and creamy cheesecake creates a heavenly taste in every bite.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack, these buns suit any time of day.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these treats.
- Bake Ahead: They can be made in advance and frozen, making them perfect for busy days.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields about 10 buns, making it great for gatherings or family get-togethers.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your Apple Cheesecake Buns.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Topping
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Crumble Topping
- ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, diced
For the Glaze
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze
Step 1: Make the Dough
Warm the milk slightly. Stir in yeast and granulated sugar, then let sit until foamy (5–10 minutes). In another bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Knead until smooth (8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a mixer). Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (1 to 1½ hours).
Step 2: Make the Apple Topping
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to coat. Sprinkle in cornstarch and cook until apples soften and mixture thickens (5–7 minutes). Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Chill until ready to use.
Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping
In a bowl, mix flour and brown sugar. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill until ready.
Step 5: Assemble the Buns
Punch down risen dough. Divide into 10–12 equal portions; roll into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly then press a well into the center of each bun. Fill each well with cheesecake mixture followed by apple topping. Sprinkle crumble on top.
Step 6: Bake
Let buns rise for another 20–30 minutes while preheating oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden. Cool on the pan for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over warm or cooled buns.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze!
How to Serve Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze
Serving your Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze is an essential step to enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your serving experience.
Pairing with Beverages
- Coffee or Espresso – The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweet, creamy filling perfectly.
- Apple Cider – A warm cup of spiced apple cider enhances the apple notes in the buns.
- Herbal Tea – Choose a gentle chamomile or mint tea for a soothing contrast.
Garnishes and Presentation
- Powdered Sugar Dusting – Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.
- Fresh Mint Leaves – Add a sprig of mint for color and freshness on each plate.
- Caramel Drizzle – A drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Perfect Occasions
- Brunch Gatherings – Make these buns the star of your brunch spread.
- Holiday Desserts – They are perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations.
- Afternoon Tea Parties – Serve them alongside other pastries for a delightful tea time.
How to Perfect Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze
Perfecting your Apple Cheesecake Buns can take them from good to extraordinary. Follow these tips to ensure each bun is just right.
- Use Fresh Apples – Fresh, crisp apples enhance flavor and texture in your buns.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough buns; knead until just smooth.
- Chill the Fillings – Chilling the cheesecake and apple fillings makes them easier to handle during assembly.
- Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on the buns as they bake; remove them when golden brown for best results.
- Allow Cooling Before Glazing – Let the buns cool slightly before adding glaze to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cheesecake Buns can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad balances sweetness with crisp textures; dress lightly with vinaigrette.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing contrast; great for breakfast or brunch.
- Fruit Salad – A simple mix of seasonal fruits enhances the fruity notes in your buns; serve chilled for freshness.
- Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of cheeses that pair well with sweet treats, such as brie or goat cheese.
- Sausage Links – Savory sausage adds heartiness, making it a perfect brunch companion; grill or pan-fry until golden.
- Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides cozy comfort alongside the sweet buns; serve hot with crusty bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or butter can prevent proper dough rise. Always use warm ingredients for better yeast activation.
- Overmixing the dough: Kneading too much can make the buns tough. Aim for a smooth consistency without overworking the dough.
- Skipping the cooling step: Filling your buns with hot cheesecake or apple mixture can lead to soggy dough. Let fillings cool before assembly.
- Not measuring accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use kitchen scales for precision when possible.
- Neglecting to preheat the oven: Baking in an unheated oven may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before baking the buns.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked Apple Cheesecake Buns in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze unglazed buns for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm buns for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
- Microwave: Heat individual buns on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place buns in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What are Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze?
These delightful treats combine soft yeast buns filled with creamy cheesecake and spiced apples, topped with a buttery crumble and sweet glaze.
Can I customize the filling of my Apple Cheesecake Buns?
Absolutely! You can use different fruits like berries or peaches, or even swap out the cheesecake filling for chocolate or vanilla custard.
How do I ensure my yeast activates properly?
Make sure your milk is warm but not hot, around 110°F (43°C), and allow it to sit with sugar and yeast until foamy before mixing into your dough.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Check if your yeast is fresh and that the environment is warm enough. If it’s too cold, try placing the dough near a warm oven or in a sunny spot.
Can these buns be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and fillings ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake fresh when you’re ready to serve!
Final Thoughts
Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze are perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet treat any day of the week. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these bakery-style delights at home!

Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of homemade Apple Cheesecake Buns with a Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze. These delightful pastries feature a soft, fluffy dough filled with creamy cheesecake and spiced apples, all crowned with a buttery crumble and finished with a sweet glaze. Perfect for cozy brunches or as an afternoon treat, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields about 10 delicious buns that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the heavenly blend of flavors that makes each bite a comforting experience.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, diced
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the dough by mixing warm milk with yeast and sugar; let it foam. Combine flour and salt in another bowl. Add yeast mixture, egg, and butter; knead until smooth. Cover and let rise until doubled (1 to 1½ hours).
- For the apple topping, melt butter in a pan; add diced apples with brown sugar and spices. Cook until softened; set aside.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling by beating cream cheese with powdered sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth; chill.
- Create the crumble topping by combining flour and brown sugar; cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Assemble buns by dividing dough into portions; fill with cheesecake then apple topping followed by crumble.
- Let rise again briefly before baking at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Drizzle cooled buns with glaze made from whisked powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun (80g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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