Name: Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup warm milk; 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2¼ tsp); 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup sugar; 1 large egg; ½ tsp salt; 6 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup sugar; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tbsp milk or water; ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of soft, fluffy buns with a creamy cheesecake center and a warm apple filling that just melts in your mouth. The Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze recipe brings all those cozy flavors together in one bite — perfect for chilly mornings or a weekend treat when you want to impress without a fuss. I remember the first time I made these, and the whole kitchen smelled like fall, even though it was summer!

What makes this recipe so worth trying is how it balances flavors and textures: the richness of the cheesecake, the tender sweet-tart apples, the crunchy crumble on top, and the delicate sweetness of the glaze. Whether you’re baking for brunch, a special coffee break, or to brighten up family day, these buns always make everyone smile. Trust me, once you try these Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze recipe, you’ll have a new favorite go-to in your baking arsenal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a role in creating those perfect textures and flavors we’re after. From the yeast that makes the buns fluffy to the cream cheese adding that luscious middle, picking good quality ingredients will take your buns to the next level. A quick heads-up: choose crisp, slightly tart apples for that fresh bite.

Warm milk: Activates the yeast – make sure it’s warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Active dry yeast: The magic behind those soft, fluffy buns.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure; fresh flour always makes a difference.
Cream cheese: Use full-fat for that rich cheesecake filling that melts beautifully.
Medium apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great – they hold their shape and add a subtle tartness.
Powdered sugar (for glaze): Whitens and sweetens the glaze, giving it that classic look and taste.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the dough and crumb topping – unsalted lets you control the salt level perfectly.

Variations

I love mixing things up depending on the season or dietary needs, and these Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze recipe are so adaptable. Feel free to personalize them with your favorite flavors or texture tweaks – baking is all about making it your own!

Spiced variation: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling – I do this often in fall, it makes the buns smell like a festival.
Gluten-free: I’ve swapped the flour for a gluten-free blend, and while the texture’s slightly different, they still taste amazing.
Dairy-free: Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter to accommodate dairy sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Fruit swap: Tried pears instead of apples once; it gave the buns a milder sweetness that worked surprisingly well.

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

Step 1: Activate the yeast and prep your dough

Start by warming your milk — it should feel like a warm hug, around 105°F to 110°F. Sprinkle your active dry yeast over the milk, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy and alive. This little bubble party is crucial for fluffy buns. While waiting, have your flour ready in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mix and knead the dough

Combine the yeast mixture with the flour and a bit of unsalted butter softened to room temperature. Knead for about 8-10 minutes by hand or in a mixer with a dough hook until the dough feels elastic and smooth. Not sticky or dry — if it’s a little tacky, that’s perfect. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the cheesecake filling and apple layer

Meanwhile, soften your cream cheese by leaving it out of the fridge for a bit. Cut your apples into small cubes – not too watery, so they hold up well inside the buns. I like to quickly toss them in a little cinnamon and sugar for extra warmth and sweetness. The cream cheese can be simply whipped smooth, adding a bit of powdered sugar if you want it sweeter.

Step 4: Shape your buns and add the toppings

After the dough’s rise, punch it down gently, then divide it into equal pieces. Flatten each piece with your hands, add a spoonful of cheesecake in the center, then sprinkle some apple cubes on top of the cream cheese. Pinch the dough up and around the filling, sealing it well. Place each bun on a baking sheet, and top with a generous crumble topping made from butter, sugar, and flour. This creates that wonderful texture contrast once baked.

Step 5: Bake your buns and finish with glaze

Bake the buns at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the crumble topping is perfectly crisp. Let them cool just a bit before drizzling with a simple sweet glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. That final touch adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. You’ll want to eat them warm, but be patient — the cream cheese filling needs a moment to set.

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 love dusting a little extra powdered sugar on top for a pretty, snowy look. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon add a nice touch if you’re serving guests — it’s simple but makes a great impression without extra work.

Side Dishes

These buns are great on their own but paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea, they’re pure bliss. I’ve also served them alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or a small bowl of fresh fruit salad to balance their richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday brunches, I’ve arranged the buns in a circular pattern on a large platter, drizzling extra glaze artistically over them and scattering chopped nuts and thin apple slices around. It looks fancy but takes almost no extra time. It’s a sure way to wow friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze recipe wrapped loosely in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and delicious for 2-3 days — perfect if you want to bake ahead for busy mornings.

Freezing

Freezing these buns works great if you want to prep in bulk. I freeze them fully baked, wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn. When ready to eat, I thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up gently the next day.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the buns in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes to revive that fresh-baked texture. Avoid microwaving as much as possible — it can make the dough chewy instead of soft and tender.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple in the Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze recipe?

Absolutely! While I recommend firmer, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape well and balance the sweetness, you can experiment with other varieties depending on your taste preference. Softer apples might turn mushy, so adjust baking time accordingly.
Is it okay to substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta?

Yes, mascarpone can work beautifully in this recipe, giving a richer, creamier texture. Ricotta is lighter and more grainy, so the texture might change a bit, but it’s still delicious if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make the dough in advance and refrigerate it?

Definitely! Making the dough the night before and letting it rise slowly in the fridge helps develop flavor. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking. It’s a great time-saver.
How do I make the crumble topping for these buns?

The crumble is a simple mix of butter, sugar, and flour, rubbed together until sandy crumbs form. You can add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth. It’s an easy step that adds incredible texture and flavor contrast.
Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a subtle sweetness and a glossy finish that makes the buns feel special. You can skip it if you prefer less sugar, but I highly recommend it for that classic bakery-style look and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze recipe enough if you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that feels both indulgent and homey. They’ve become my go-to for whenever I want a treat that’s more than just a bun — a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy all in one. Give it a go, and I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds. Plus, the smiles and warm compliments from friends and family are the sweetest reward.