If you’ve ever wanted to experience a classic comfort food from Eastern Europe, you simply must try the Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun. Each bite offers a fluffy, golden yeast bun embrace around a creamy, sweet cheese center—impossibly tender, rich, and subtly tangy. This beloved bake isn’t just delicious; it’s pure joy for breakfast, teatime, or a cozy snack. Baking a batch is like sending a little kiss from your oven, guaranteed to fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma and invite smiles from everyone lucky enough to have one.

Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Despite their decadent flavor and appearance, Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Buns are made from surprisingly simple staples. Every ingredient here pulls its weight—working together to strike that perfect balance of pillowy bread and luscious, sweet filling.

All-purpose flour: This gives your buns structure and that signature soft, tender crumb—don’t forget a little extra for dusting your surface!
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the dough and the filling for a gentle sweetness that doesn’t overpower.
Active dry yeast: The secret to getting those buns to rise beautifully (make sure it’s fresh and bubbly for best results).
Warm milk: Adds moisture and a hint of richness, helping activate the yeast.
Large egg: Brings fat and structure to the dough so it stays light yet satisfying.
Unsalted butter: Melted for easy mixing, it adds unbeatable flavor and tenderness.
Salt: Just a touch! Balance is key—this lifts every other flavor.
Farmer’s cheese or ricotta: For the filling; creamy, slightly tangy, and smooth—choose the freshest you can find.
Vanilla extract: A little goes a long way; it perfumes the filling and ties the flavors together!
Egg yolk: Helps enrich the cheese mixture until it’s custardy and luscious.
Egg (for egg wash): Beaten and brushed over the buns for an irresistible golden shine.

How to Make Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Start with a foundation of warm milk, lively yeast, and a touch of sugar. Whisk them together in a small bowl and let the magic begin—within 5 to 10 minutes, your yeast will foam up, signaling it’s alive and ready to raise your buns sky-high. This crucial step promises lightness in every bite of your Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun.

Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough

In a large bowl, stir together flour, sugar, and salt for an even base. Pour in the foamy yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Mix until it all comes together, then knead on a floured surface for about 8 minutes. You’re looking for a soft, smooth, and elastic dough—think of it like crafting a pillow for that dreamy cheese filling!

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer your kneaded dough to a greased bowl, cover it up, and give it a warm little corner in your kitchen. After about an hour, it should double in size—soft, puffy, and ready to shape. This patience pays off in the ultimate texture of your Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Buns.

Step 4: Mix the Sweet Cheese Filling

While the dough rises, prep the filling: blend your farmer’s cheese or ricotta with sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. The mixture should be creamy and luscious—thick enough to sit neatly in the dough wells, but still velvety smooth on the tongue.

Step 5: Shape and Fill the Buns

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces—about 80 grams each. Roll each into a ball and space them evenly on your baking sheet. Gently press a deep well into the center of each with your thumb, then spoon a generous tablespoon of the sweet cheese filling into each indentation.

Step 6: Brush and Bake

Give the edges of each bun a glossy boost with a thorough egg wash. Slide your beauties into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the buns are golden and their cheesy centers are softly set. That aroma wafting from your oven? Simply irresistible.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Buns to cool for several minutes on the pan, then move them to a wire rack. Slightly warm or at room temperature, their flavor and texture shine—gather everyone, and watch these disappear!

How to Serve Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar instantly elevates the look (and gives a delicate sweetness up top). For an extra special touch, try a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few fresh berries right as you serve—these bright accents play so well with the creamy filling of your Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun.

Side Dishes

Pair these buns with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. If you’re making them for breakfast or brunch, they’re wonderful with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a dollop of your favorite jam for a sweet-tart twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Buns on a rustic wooden platter or a vintage cake stand to showcase their gorgeous golden tops. For special occasions, tuck a few edible flowers alongside or serve them in colorful paper liners for an extra pop of festive fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover buns can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for a day, but for longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator. Their texture remains wonderfully soft, and the filling stays just as creamy as when freshly baked.

Freezing

If you’d like to have Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun on hand anytime, wrap the cooled buns tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a spontaneous treat, no fuss required.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked magic, pop the buns into a 300°F (150°C) oven for around 8 minutes, or microwave individual buns for about 20 seconds. This brings back their pillowy softness and revives the filling’s creaminess without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese instead of farmer’s cheese or ricotta?

Absolutely! Cream cheese will make the filling richer and a touch denser, but it’s a delicious substitute if farmer’s cheese or ricotta isn’t on hand. Just be sure to soften it first for easy mixing.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to the first rise and refrigerate it overnight, tightly covered. The next day, let it come to room temperature before shaping and filling your Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun.

What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

Instant yeast is a perfect stand-in—just skip the blooming step and add it directly to your dry ingredients. Watch your dough closely, as the rise may be a bit quicker.

Do these buns travel well for picnics or potlucks?

They’re fantastic for sharing! Once cooled, Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun stays sturdy enough for transport and makes a unique treat among more common pastries.

How do I know when the buns are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and the cheese filling will look softly set and just barely jiggle when you nudge the pan. If you like your filling slightly firmer, leave them in for another minute or two.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for cozy baking project or a show-stopping brunch treat, Vatrushka – Sweet Cheese-Filled Bun is simply unbeatable. Their delicate exterior, dreamy cheese center, and homey charm never fail to delight. Give them a try and let your kitchen be filled with the irresistible warmth of homemade goodness!