Viral Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns With Sweet Filling

The garlic cream cheese bun trend finally made sense to me once I tasted how the sweet butter tempers the raw edge of the garlic. I keep the garlic light so it reads as cozy rather than savory.

With a soft, fluffy exterior and a sweet, cheesy center, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re looking for a unique snack or a delicious breakfast option, these buns won’t disappoint.

Delicious Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns

This recipe features fluffy buns filled with a savory garlic cream cheese spread and topped with a sweet, buttery glaze. The preparation takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making around 12 buns.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons butter, softened
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, minced garlic, and softened butter together until well combined. Set aside.

Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, flatten it, and place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center. Pinch to seal and shape into a bun.
Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on a greased baking tray, cover, and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Buns: Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Glaze: While the buns are baking, mix powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze. Drizzle it over the warm buns once they come out of the oven.
Serve: Enjoy the buns warm, optionally topped with sesame seeds and fresh parsley.