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Blueberry & Cheese Vatrushka Buns

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These soft and pillowy Ukrainian buns are filled with a creamy cheese filling, sweet blueberry preserves, and topped with a buttery streusel. Perfect for a special breakfast or dessert!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Yeast Dough:

  • 1 cup whole milk (heated to 120°F–130°F)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp dry active yeast
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs + 2 egg yolks
  • 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups farmer’s cheese (tvorog)
  • 1/3 cup blueberry preserves or other berry jam

For the Streusel Topping:

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
  • 1 tbsp cream

Additional:

  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Make the Yeast Dough:
    • Heat milk to 120°F–130°F and pour into a large mixing bowl. Whisk in sugar and sprinkle yeast over the top. Let proof for 5 minutes until foamy.
    • Add salt, vanilla, eggs, yolks, and melted butter. Whisk to combine.
    • Gradually add flour, mixing well. Knead dough until smooth and elastic (12–15 minutes by hand, 20 minutes by mixer).
  2. First Proofing:
    • Place dough in a bowl, cover, and set in a warm spot. Let proof for 1 ½ to 2 hours until doubled in size.
  3. Shape the Buns:
    • Divide dough into 16 portions, shape into balls, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Fill the Buns:
    • Create a well in each bun. Fill with a spoonful of cheese mixture and a dollop of blueberry preserves.
  5. Prepare the Streusel:
    • Mix flour, sugar, and chilled butter to form crumbs. Add cream and mix lightly.
  6. Second Proofing:
    • Let buns proof for 20–30 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Bake:
    • Brush bun edges with beaten egg, sprinkle streusel over the filling, and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow buns to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use a warm, draft-free spot for proofing to help the dough rise better.
  • Substitute farmer’s cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese if unavailable.
  • These buns freeze well; reheat in the oven before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://deliceflash.com/blueberry-cheese-vatrushka-buns/