If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a pillow-soft bun bursting with luscious cream, then you are going to love this Italian Cream Buns Recipe. These tender, golden buns are enriched with a delicate yeast dough that’s perfectly balanced by the light and fluffy whipped cream filling. Each bite offers a wonderful contrast of slightly sweet bread and rich cream, all finished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar that makes them feel like a special treat straight from an Italian bakery. This recipe is a delightful way to bring a touch of rustic charm and elegance to your home baking adventures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Italian Cream Buns Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role to ensure the buns are soft, flavorful, and fluffy while the creamy filling remains smooth and satisfying.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your buns, providing the perfect structure for soft and tender bread.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough, helping the yeast activate and giving the buns a delicate flavor.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: The magic agent that makes your dough rise and become wonderfully fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dough.
- 3/4 cup warm milk: Creates a moist dough and activates the yeast gently.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and tenderness to the dough’s texture.
- 1 egg: Helps bind ingredients and adds a subtle richness to the buns.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star of the filling, whipped until fluffy and dreamy.
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream filling with a delicate touch.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the cream with a warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- Extra powdered sugar, for dusting: Adds a beautiful finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Make Italian Cream Buns Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Begin by combining the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. This warm environment wakes up the yeast, allowing it to bubble and foam within 5 to 10 minutes. This foaming is a clear signal your yeast is alive and working, which is crucial for that perfect rise.
Step 2: Mix and knead the dough
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, stir in the softened butter, egg, salt, and all-purpose flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough gently by hand for about 8 to 10 minutes. This kneading step develops the gluten, giving the buns their characteristic soft yet sturdy texture.
Step 3: First rise
Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This first rise is where your dough transforms, becoming airy and light, setting the stage for delightfully fluffy buns.
Step 4: Shape the buns and second rise
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any trapped air. Divide the dough into eight equal pieces and shape each into a bun. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet, cover again, and let them rise for 30 minutes. This second rise makes sure the buns will have a tender crumb and beautiful volume.
Step 5: Bake the buns
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 18 to 20 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool completely so they hold their shape when filled.
Step 6: Prepare the whipped cream filling
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This heavenly, fluffy cream will be the luscious surprise inside each bun.
Step 7: Assemble and dust
Slice each cooled bun horizontally and fill generously with the whipped cream. Finish by dusting the tops with extra powdered sugar for that classic, irresistible look.
How to Serve Italian Cream Buns Recipe
Garnishes
While a simple dusting of powdered sugar is traditional and lovely, imagine adding fresh berries or a hint of grated lemon zest on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. A light drizzle of melted chocolate can also elevate these treats for those special occasions.
Side Dishes
These Italian Cream Buns pair beautifully with a cup of espresso or a warm cup of tea, making them perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. You can also enjoy them alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to create a more balanced dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the buns stacked neatly on a tiered platter for buffets or parties, or place each bun in a beautiful, individual paper liner to make guests feel like they’re getting a personal pastry treat. Wrapping them up as thoughtful homemade gifts is another delightful idea that spreads joy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Italian Cream Buns, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The whipped cream filling means they are best enjoyed within two days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked buns without the cream filling by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before adding the whipped cream.
Reheating
For warm buns, reheat frozen or refrigerated buns for about 10 minutes in a 300°F oven. Add the whipped cream fresh after warming to keep it light and fluffy, making every bite just as delightful as when first made.
FAQs
Can I use milk alternatives in this Italian Cream Buns Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute warm dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk for the warm milk in the dough. Just ensure it is warmed to the right temperature to activate the yeast properly.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the filling?
If heavy cream is not available, a good-quality whipped coconut cream can be a delicious dairy-free alternative for the filling. It whips similarly and imparts a slight coconut flavor.
Can these buns be made ahead completely assembled?
While you can assemble them in advance, the whipped cream tends to soften the buns over time. It’s best to prepare the buns in advance and add the cream filling shortly before serving.
How do I know when to stop kneading the dough?
Stop kneading when the dough feels smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. It should bounce back when you gently press a finger into it.
Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
Yes, the two rises are crucial. The first rise develops flavor and volume in the dough, while the second rise after shaping ensures the buns remain tender and achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Final Thoughts
Baking this Italian Cream Buns Recipe is truly a joy, from the warm, yeasty dough to the cloud-like cream filling. It’s a recipe that brings happiness to the kitchen and smiles to the table. I encourage you to try it soon and experience these delightful buns that make everyday moments feel just a little more special.
Print
Italian Cream Buns Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 buns
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Italian Cream Buns are soft, fluffy buns filled with sweet vanilla whipped cream and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for a delightful dessert or an indulgent snack, these buns combine a tender yeast dough with rich whipped cream, offering a light yet flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
Whipped Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Finishing
- Extra powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Make dough: Stir in softened butter, egg, salt, and all-purpose flour into the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape buns: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth bun. Arrange the buns on a baking sheet, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes until puffed.
- Bake buns: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare whipped cream filling: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, ensuring the cream holds its shape well for filling.
- Assemble and serve: Slice each cooled bun horizontally, fill generously with the whipped cream, then dust the tops with extra powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful finish.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Kneading the dough thoroughly is key to achieving a soft and fluffy texture.
- Whip the cream in a chilled bowl to help it reach stiff peaks faster and stay stable.
- You can substitute heavy cream with whipping cream, but the texture may be lighter.
- Serve buns the same day for best freshness; whipped cream can cause them to become soggy if stored too long.
