Cheese-Filled Soft Buns: A Warm, Cheesy Delight

#### For the cheese filling:
– **2 cups shredded cheese** (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both) – The star of the filling, giving the buns that ooey-gooey goodness.
– **2 tablespoons cream cheese** (optional) – For an extra creamy texture in the filling.
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning** (optional) – Adds a little extra flavor to the cheese filling.
– **1 egg** (for egg wash) – To brush over the buns for a golden, glossy finish.

### Instructions for Making Cheese-Filled Soft Buns:

#### 1. **Prepare the Dough:**
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy. This ensures that the yeast is activated and ready to rise.

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, milk, melted butter, and the egg. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough for about 5-6 minutes.

#### 2. **Let the Dough Rise:**
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.

#### 3. **Prepare the Cheese Filling:**
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheese and cream cheese (if using). Add the dried oregano or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Stir the ingredients together until the cheese is evenly mixed and creamy.

#### 4. **Shape the Buns:**
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into small, even portions, about 10-12 pieces, depending on how large you want the buns.

Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a small disc (about 3-4 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each disc, then carefully fold the edges of the dough around the cheese, pinching the seams together to seal the filling inside.

Place the filled buns seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.

#### 5. **Second Rise and Egg Wash:**
Once all the buns are shaped and placed on the baking sheet, cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until they puff up slightly.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the buns with a beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.

#### 6. **Bake the Buns:**
Bake the cheese-filled buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The cheese inside should be melted and bubbly, creating a gooey, delicious filling.

#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. These cheese-filled soft buns are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, with their soft, fluffy texture and gooey cheese filling.

### Why You’ll Love Cheese-Filled Soft Buns:

These **cheese-filled soft buns** offer the perfect balance of soft, pillowy dough and the savory, melty goodness of cheese. The richness of the butter and milk in the dough creates a light, tender texture that’s ideal for holding the cheesy filling. The cheese filling is warm, gooey, and full of flavor, while the slight seasoning adds depth without overpowering the delicious simplicity of the dish.

Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these buns are guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. They’re incredibly versatile and can be made with different types of cheese to suit your tastes—cheddar for a sharp kick, mozzarella for a more neutral, melty experience, or even a blend of both for the best of both worlds.

### Tips for Perfect Cheese-Filled Soft Buns:

– **Don’t overfill the buns:** When adding the cheese filling, be careful not to overstuff the buns, as the cheese can leak out during baking. A generous spoonful should be enough.
– **Use room-temperature ingredients:** Ensure your milk and butter are at room temperature for a smoother dough that rises better.
– **Experiment with different cheeses:** Feel free to get creative with the cheese you use. Parmesan, Gouda, or Gruyère are excellent options for adding a more complex flavor profile to the buns.
– **Make ahead:** You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Simply allow the dough to rise before baking, or freeze the shaped buns before the second rise for later use.

### Conclusion:

**Cheese-filled soft buns** are the perfect combination of comforting bread and savory cheese, making them a delicious addition to any meal. They’re easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your tastes with different types of cheese and seasonings. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, paired with a warm bowl of soup, or as a snack, these buns are sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy these cheesy, soft delights that are perfect for any occasion!