Delicious Vanilla Cream Buns – Fluffy and Creamy Pastry Treats
There’s nothing more comforting than a freshly baked vanilla cream bun. These soft, fluffy pastries are filled with rich vanilla custard, making them the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack anytime.
Unlike regular buns, the vanilla cream filling adds a luxurious element, while the golden-brown exterior provides the perfect contrast. With a hint of vanilla aroma, a soft, pillowy texture, and a melt-in-your-mouth custard center, these buns elevate simple baking into a gourmet experience.
Ideal for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or gifting during special occasions, these Delicious Vanilla Cream Buns combine the art of baking with indulgence.
History and Inspiration
Sweet filled buns have been a beloved treat for centuries across Europe and Asia. From German “Bienenstich” (bee sting cake) to Japanese cream buns, the idea of combining soft bread with sweet custard has universal appeal.
The vanilla cream bun is inspired by French pastry traditions, particularly choux and brioche-based desserts, which feature a delicate dough filled with cream. Over time, these buns became popular worldwide, adapted for home bakers with easy-to-follow recipes and accessible ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Vanilla Cream Filling
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit 5–10 minutes until frothy. - Mix Dough Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, softened butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. - First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size. - Prepare Vanilla Cream
In a saucepan, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. Slowly add warm milk while whisking to prevent curdling. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Chill to room temperature. - Shape the Buns
Punch down dough and divide into equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disk, spoon vanilla cream in the center, and seal edges to enclose the filling. Place on a lined baking sheet. - Second Rise
Cover buns and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffed. - Bake the Buns
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush buns with egg wash for shine and bake 18–22 minutes until golden brown. - Cool and Serve
Let buns cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally top with whipped cream.
Sensory Description
- Appearance: Golden-brown buns, soft and plump, sometimes dusted with powdered sugar.
- Texture: Fluffy exterior with creamy, smooth custard inside.
- Aroma: Sweet vanilla and freshly baked bread.
- Taste: Rich, sweet, and lightly buttery with the warm flavor of vanilla custard in every bite.
Tips for Perfect Vanilla Cream Buns
- Use fresh, room temperature eggs and butter for easier dough handling.
- Chill custard before filling for easier handling and less leakage.
- Seal buns tightly to prevent cream from oozing during baking.
- Optional: brush with sugar syrup after baking for extra shine and sweetness.
Variations
- Chocolate-Filled Buns: Add chocolate chips to the custard or swirl melted chocolate inside.
- Fruit Cream Buns: Mix fruit puree like strawberry or raspberry with custard.
- Mini Buns: Bake smaller versions for snacks or lunchboxes.
- Glazed Topping: Use a thin sugar glaze instead of powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with coffee, tea, or milk.
- Present on a tiered dessert platter for afternoon tea or brunch.
- Great for holiday gifting: wrap in parchment with a ribbon.
- Pair with fresh berries or fruit compote for extra flavor.
Delicious Vanilla Cream Buns
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, softened butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Prepare the vanilla cream: whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. Slowly add warm milk while whisking. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Chill to room temperature.
- Punch down dough and divide into equal portions. Flatten each portion, spoon vanilla cream in the center, and seal edges to enclose the filling.
- Place buns on a lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush buns with egg wash for shine and bake 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
- Let buns cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally, serve with whipped cream.
