There’s something truly special about the moment when you unveil a batch of freshly baked Ube Cheese Braided Buns. As I pulled my first batch from the oven, the smell of warm, buttery dough mingled perfectly with the sweet, earthy aroma of ube, instantly transporting me to my happiest memories of family gatherings. These buns aren’t just a treat for the taste buds; they bring a burst of color and creativity to your kitchen that’ll wow everyone at the dinner table.
What started as a simple quest for a delightful snack turned into an exciting baking adventure as I played with flavors and textures. The creamy, melting cheese paired with the sweet ube jam makes each bite a glorious surprise. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to elevate your weekend brunch, these buns are the answer. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, ensuring you won’t feel overwhelmed in the kitchen.
Join me as we dive into this fun, flavorful recipe that will leave you craving more and ready to share the love!
Why are Ube Cheese Braided Buns irresistible?
Deliciousness in Every Bite: The sweet ube jam perfectly complements the creamy cheese, creating a flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
Eye-Catching Presentation: With their stunning purple hue and braided design, these buns are sure to impress at any gathering.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking pro! The straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for anyone looking to bake something special.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, snacks, or dessert, these buns fit seamlessly into any meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Share the love as family and friends flock to these beautiful buns—everyone will want to savor the magic!
Elevate your baking game and discover the joy of homemade goodness with these Ube Cheese Braided Buns!
Ube Cheese Braided Buns Ingredients
• Get ready to create an explosion of flavor with these delightful buns!
For the Dough
- Bread Flour – This is the backbone of your buns; it gives them structure and the right texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the dough brown nicely in the oven.
- Instant Dry Yeast – This magical ingredient makes your Ube Cheese Braided Buns rise beautifully and provides a light texture.
- Fine Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dough; a little goes a long way!
- Egg – Provides richness and helps bind the dough materials together.
- Whole Milk – Adds moisture and a luscious creaminess to your dough.
- Unsalted Butter – Use melted and cooled butter for a rich flavor and tender crumb.
For the Filling
- Ube Jam – The star ingredient that brings sweetness and a vibrant purple color to your buns.
- Ube Extract – Enhances the ube flavor; use it to your taste for that extra kick!
- Cheese – Choose your favorite cheese for a delightful creamy surprise inside!
For the Egg Wash
- Egg – Gives your buns a beautiful golden-brown finish when brushed on before baking.
- Water – Helps thin out the egg for an easy application to get that shiny top!
How to Make Ube Cheese Braided Buns
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Mix the Dough: In your stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine bread flour, sugar, and instant dry yeast. Mix for a few seconds, then stream in your milk, egg, and melted butter. Knead on low-medium speed until it forms a rough dough, then add salt.
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Knead Smoothly: Gradually increase the speed to high and knead the dough until it’s smooth, stretchy, and passes the windowpane test, which takes about 15-30 minutes.
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Let It Rise: Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a large bowl, cover with cling wrap, and allow to proof in a warm area for 60 minutes or until at least doubled in volume.
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Prepare the Filling: Mix ube jam in a bowl until spreadable, then add ube extract to intensify the flavor. In a separate bowl, shred the cheese using a fork or grater.
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Divide and Flatten: After proofing, uncover and punch down the dough. Divide it into 10 equal pieces, about 78-80g each. Flatten each piece into a 6×8-inch rectangle.
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Add Fillings: Spread 2-3 tablespoons of ube jam over the surface, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Roll each piece into a 6-inch log, pinching the seams. Freeze for 15 minutes.
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Shape the Buns: Cut each log in half lengthwise to form two half-logs with exposed ube cheese ‘stripes’. Pinch the tops together, twist them to resemble a braid, then roll into a bun, pinching the seams underneath. Place on parchment-lined trays.
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Second Proofing: Cover the buns with cling wrap and proof in a warm area for 30-40 minutes or until they’ve doubled in volume. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
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Prepare Egg Wash: Beat the egg and mix it with water. Lightly brush this mixture onto the proofed buns for a beautiful glaze.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Once baked, cool on a wire rack to let them set.
Optional: Serve these buns warm with additional ube jam on the side for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Ube Cheese Braided Buns Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful buns to suit your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these buns without gluten. Make sure to add xanthan gum for better texture.
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Vegan: Use plant-based milk and butter along with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) to keep it vegan-friendly while retaining that soft texture.
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Sweet Potato Twist: Replace the ube jam with sweet potato puree for a different sweet flavor and a beautiful orange hue that’s just as enticing.
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Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses like cream cheese or feta to add a tangy twist. Cream cheese will make the filling extra creamy and rich!
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Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant, savory element that pairs beautifully with the cheesy filling.
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Chocolate Surprise: For a sweet treat, incorporate dark chocolate chips alongside the ube jam. The chocolate melting inside creates a delightful surprise in every bite!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a delightful spicy surprise that balances the sweetness of the ube.
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Coconut Bliss: Swirl in shredded coconut with the ube jam for a lovely tropical flavor that adds texture and a hint of sweetness to each bite.
These variations will inspire you to personalize your Ube Cheese Braided Buns and create a version that speaks to your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Ube Cheese Braided Buns
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Ube Cheese Braided Buns fresh for up to 2 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
Fridge: If you need them to last longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.
Freezer: Freeze any leftover buns wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy warm buns, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for a quick 15-20 seconds for a soft, melty experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Cheese Braided Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and rolls up to 24 hours in advance by shaping them and placing them on a parchment-lined tray. Cover tightly with cling wrap and refrigerate; this prevents the dough from drying out and maintains its quality. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the buns from the refrigerator, let them proof in a warm area for about 30-40 minutes, and follow the baking instructions as detailed. This method ensures you’ll enjoy fresh, homemade Ube Cheese Braided Buns with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Ube Cheese Braided Buns?
The delightful flavors and textures of these buns can be beautifully complemented by a variety of sides and treats that ensure a well-rounded meal.
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Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creaminess of coconut rice harmonize perfectly with the rich, cheesy ube buns. It’s a fragrant base that enhances the entire dining experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the buns.
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Savory Asian Dipping Sauce: A light soy-based sauce with a hint of sesame oil brings an umami kick, balancing the sweetness of the buns and making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Strong Brewed Coffee: Brew up a rich and aromatic coffee; its bold bitterness pairs beautifully with the sweet and buttery notes of the ube and cheese combination.
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Spicy Pickled Vegetables: These tangy, crunchy veggies offer a delightful zing to cut through the richness, making your meal balanced and satisfying.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This creamy side brings a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft buns, offering a hearty and nostalgic feel to your meal.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a sweet finishing touch, serve warm buns with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream; the melting ice cream beautifully complements the ube flavors.
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Asian-style Soup: A light broth soup, like miso or wonton soup, provides a comforting warmth and depth, creating a cozy vibe for your meal plan.
Pairing these sides with Ube Cheese Braided Buns will create an exciting and flavorful dining experience that everyone will enjoy!
Expert Tips for Ube Cheese Braided Buns
Kneading Time: Ensure you knead for 15-30 minutes. Under-kneading can lead to dense buns, so patience is key to achieve that perfect stretchy dough.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use ingredients at room temperature, especially the milk and eggs. This helps create a smooth dough that rises beautifully during proofing, making your Ube Cheese Braided Buns light and fluffy.
Proofing Conditions: Find a warm spot for proofing; drafts can slow down the yeast activity. If it’s chilly, try proofing in an oven with the light on to create a gentle warmth.
Resting the Logs: Freezing the rolled logs for 15 minutes helps them hold their shape during the twisting process. It makes them easier to handle and prevents tears!
Avoid Over-Baking: Keep an eye on your buns towards the end of baking; they can go from golden to burnt quickly. A few extra minutes can make a big difference in the outcome!
These tips will ensure your Ube Cheese Braided Buns turn out delicious and perfect every time!
Ube Cheese Braided Buns Recipe FAQs
What type of ube jam should I use?
Absolutely! For these Ube Cheese Braided Buns, use a good quality, spreadable ube jam. Look for brands with natural ingredients and a vibrant purple color for the best flavor. If you prefer, you can also make your own ube jam for a more authentic taste!
How should I store Ube Cheese Braided Buns?
You can keep your Ube Cheese Braided Buns fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, they can stay in the fridge for up to 5 days—just know the texture may change slightly.
Can I freeze Ube Cheese Braided Buns, and how?
Definitely! To freeze your buns, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their softness.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date before using yeast. An ideal proofing environment is key; ensure it’s placed in a warm area without drafts. If it’s too cool, consider turning on the oven light or using a microwave (without heat) for a cozy spot to help it rise.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely swap out cheeses based on your preference. Cream cheese, mozzarella, or even a bit of cheddar can work well, adding different flavors and textures that make your Ube Cheese Braided Buns unique!
Delicious Ube Cheese Braided Buns to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine bread flour, sugar, and instant dry yeast. Mix for a few seconds, then stream in your milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Knead on low-medium speed until it forms a rough dough, then add salt.
- Gradually increase the speed to high and knead the dough until it’s smooth, stretchy, and passes the windowpane test, which takes about 15-30 minutes.
- Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a large bowl, cover with cling wrap, and let rise in a warm area for 60 minutes or until at least doubled in volume.
- Prepare the filling by mixing ube jam in a bowl until spreadable, then add ube extract. In a separate bowl, shred the cheese using a fork or grater.
- After proofing, uncover and punch down the dough. Divide it into 10 equal pieces, about 78-80g each. Flatten each piece into a 6×8-inch rectangle.
- Spread 2-3 tablespoons of ube jam over the surface, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Roll each piece into a 6-inch log, pinching the seams. Freeze for 15 minutes.
- Cut each log in half lengthwise to form two half-logs with exposed ube cheese ‘stripes’. Pinch the tops together, twist them to resemble a braid, then roll into a bun, pinching the seams underneath. Place on parchment-lined trays.
- Cover the buns with cling wrap and proof in a warm area for 30-40 minutes or until they've doubled in volume. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Prepare the egg wash by beating the egg and mixing it with water. Lightly brush this mixture onto the proofed buns.
- Bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Once baked, cool on a wire rack.