Name: Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F); 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons); 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 6 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 medium apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons warm milk or water; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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I’m so excited to share this Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe because it’s one of my absolute favorite treats when I want something cozy yet special. These buns have it all: soft, pillowy dough, a luscious cheesecake filling, tangy sweet apples, a crunchy crumble topping, and a drizzle of silky glaze that ties everything together. If you love the idea of a bakery-style treat but want to make it at home, this recipe is definitely going to become your go-to.

These buns work beautifully for brunch gatherings, lazy weekend breakfasts, or even a comforting dessert after a long day. What makes this Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe really worth trying is how the textures and flavors balance so well. The cream cheese filling adds a velvety smoothness that perfectly complements the tart apples and crumbly top, making every bite a little celebration. Plus, it’s easier than you think to pull off, and I’m here to walk you through all the little tips that made it a hit in my kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here has a role that builds on the next for a perfect bun experience. From the warm milk that wakes up the yeast to the creamy richness of the cream cheese, these components come together like old friends. When shopping, aim for fresh apples that still have a bit of crispness to them—that texture really shines when baked inside the buns.

Warm milk: It activates the yeast; make sure it’s warm but not hot to avoid killing your yeast.
Active dry yeast: The magic behind making these buns rise and turn fluffy.
All-purpose flour: Gives structure without being too dense; don’t skip this and don’t substitute lightly.
Cream cheese: Brings that rich, tangy creaminess—soften it before mixing for the smoothest filling.
Medium apples: I like granny smith for tartness, but honeycrisp works too for a sweeter note.
Powdered sugar (for glaze): Dissolves perfectly for that shiny, sweet finish.
Unsalted butter: Essential for the crumble topping and helps keep control over saltiness.

Variations

While I love making the Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe exactly as is, you can totally play around with it depending on your mood or pantry stash. Personalizing this recipe adds to the fun—and sometimes I swap out ingredients based on the season or what I have available.

Use cinnamon or nutmeg in the crumble: I’ve sprinkled in warming spices before and it adds an incredible cozy vibe that’s perfect for autumn.
Almond flour for the crumble: For a gluten-free twist on the topping, I swapped in almond flour and got a wonderful nutty crunch.
Replace cream cheese with mascarpone: Once, I tried mascarpone for a slightly richer filling, and it was decadently creamy but a bit softer—delicious!
Add chopped walnuts or pecans: Mixing nuts into the crumble gives extra texture, which I highly recommend if you love a little crunch.
Make a dairy-free version: Sub veggie-based cream cheese and butter alternatives, and use plant-based milk—still yummy with a slightly different flair.

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

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast and Prepare Dough

Start by warming your milk—aim for it to feel like a warm hug, around 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the yeast over the milk, give it a little stir, and set it aside for about 5 minutes until it gets foamy on top. This is your yeast waking up and getting ready to make those buns fluffy, so if it doesn’t foam, start again with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine your flour with a pinch of salt if you like (since butter is unsalted, a little salt in dough balances it). Add in the yeast mixture and knead until you have a smooth dough that’s soft but not sticky—about 8-10 minutes. You can do this by hand or in a stand mixer with a dough hook. Then cover it and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it doubles in size. This part is where patience pays off, so enjoy the little moment of calm while the dough puffs up.

Step 3: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling and Apples

While the dough rises, soften your cream cheese so it’s easy to stir. Peel, core, and dice your apples into small chunks—you want them bite-sized so they nestle nicely inside the buns without making them soggy. I usually toss the diced apples with a sprinkle of lemon juice to keep their color fresh. Then set these aside while you prep the crumble topping.

Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping

Combine cold, cubed unsalted butter with a little flour and sugar (you can add cinnamon here if you want). Use your fingers to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse crumbs. This topping will bake golden and crispy, giving the buns their signature crunch and that irresistible texture contrast.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Buns

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, then scatter the diced apples on top. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, then cut into individual buns about 1.5 to 2 inches wide. Place them on a lined baking sheet or greased pan, sprinkle generously with your crumble topping, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and the topping is crispy. The smell at this point almost makes waiting unbearable!

Step 6: Prepare and Drizzle the Sweet Glaze

While the buns bake, whisk powdered sugar with a little milk or water until smooth and glossy. Once the buns come out of the oven and have cooled just slightly, drizzle this sweet glaze over the top. I like to let it drip down the sides for a photo-ready look, but also because it adds that perfect touch of sweetness without being overpowering.

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 often sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top for that finishing touch and sometimes a tiny sprinkle of cinnamon to tie back into the flavors inside. Fresh apple slices or a sprig of mint also add a lovely visual pop if you’re serving guests.

Side Dishes

These buns are delightful on their own, but I love pairing them with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. Sometimes I serve them alongside a simple fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arrange the buns in a circular pattern on a large plate, drizzle glaze in a crisscross pattern, and add some edible flowers. It’s an easy way to make a homemade treat look super elegant and festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them soft, I recommend wrapping each bun individually in plastic wrap before putting them in the container. It really helps keep the cream cheese filling fresh and the buns moist.

Freezing

I’ve had great luck freezing these buns after baking. Just cool them completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 3 months, which is perfect if you want to prep ahead for holidays or busy mornings.

Reheating

To reheat, I take a bun out of the fridge or freezer and warm it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until soft and slightly melty. For a crispier top, a quick 5-minute zap in the oven at 350°F does wonders. Just watch it carefully so the glaze doesn’t burn.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the sweet cream cheese, sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work just as well. Just be mindful that sweeter apples may make the filling a bit more sugary, so you might adjust the glaze or crumble sugar accordingly.
Is it possible to make these Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as vegan cream cheese, dairy-free butter, and plant milks. The texture might vary slightly but the flavor remains delicious. Just ensure the vegan cream cheese isn’t too watery for the filling.
How long does it take to make this Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe?

From start to finish, including dough rising and baking, plan for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Most of this time is hands-off while the dough rises and the buns bake. It’s worth the wait for that fresh-from-the-oven goodness!
Can I prepare the dough and filling the night before?

Definitely. You can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly overnight in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before rolling it out, then assemble the buns. The filling can be prepped and refrigerated to make your morning baking smoother.
What if I don’t have cream cheese—can I use something else?

You could try mascarpone or ricotta cheese as alternatives. Mascarpone will give you a similarly creamy texture but a bit richer flavor, while ricotta is lighter but less tangy. Just keep the filling thick enough so it doesn’t leak during baking.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cheesecake Buns with Crumble Topping and Sweet Glaze Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it manages to feel both indulgent and comforting. Every time I serve these, I get the warmest compliments, and honestly, it feels like a little love letter made from buttery dough, creamy filling, and just the right touch of sweetness. I truly hope you’ll try making these buns—it’s a wonderful way to bring a slice of bakery magic into your own home. Trust me, once you taste that first crumbly, creamy bite, you’ll be hooked!