Russian Cream Cheese Vatrushka Buns are a delectable treat with their soft, pillowy dough and smooth, slightly tangy cream cheese filling. The combination of textures in each bite – the delicate dough and the creamy center – makes this a truly comforting dessert.
These buns are perfect for special occasions or a cozy afternoon with tea. You can easily personalize them by adding fruits like berries to the cream cheese filling or experimenting with different toppings. Whether you enjoy them warm right out of the oven or as a snack later on, Vatrushka Buns are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Full Recipe:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 package (8g) active dry yeast
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½ cup milk, lukewarm
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1/4 cup sugar
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1/4 cup butter, melted
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2 egg yolks
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional for garnish)
Directions:
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In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
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In a separate large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg yolks. Stir to combine and knead the dough until smooth and elastic (about 5-7 minutes).
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Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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While the dough rises, prepare the cream cheese filling by combining cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 10-12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a small ball and place on a greased baking sheet.
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Using your thumb or a spoon, press an indentation into the center of each bun to create a small well.
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Fill each well with a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture.
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Brush the edges of the dough with an egg wash (beaten egg) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Once baked, remove from the oven and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 12 buns
Tips for Perfect Vatrushka Buns
Use high-quality flour: The key to a good dough is using the right type of flour. All-purpose flour works best for vatrushka buns, and using a reputable brand like Bob’s Red Mill ensures that the dough will have the right texture.
Knead the dough properly: The dough needs to be kneaded until it is smooth and elastic, which can be done easily with a stand mixer. Kneading helps develop the gluten in the dough, contributing to its soft, airy texture.
Allow the dough to rise: Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise in a warm place. This step is crucial for achieving the soft, pillowy texture that makes vatrushka buns so special. The dough should double in size before you proceed to the next step.
Don’t skip the egg wash: Brushing the buns with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and adds a slight sheen to the surface. This step is optional but highly recommended for an appealing finish.
Fill generously: When adding the cheese filling, don’t be afraid to overfill the centers slightly. The filling shrinks as it bakes, so a generous amount will ensure that the buns have a rich, creamy center.
Use multiple baking sheets: To ensure that the vatrushka buns have enough space to rise and bake evenly, it’s best to use two baking sheets. This also prevents the buns from touching and sticking together during the baking process.
History and Origin of Vatrushka Buns
Vatrushka buns have a rich history in Russian and Eastern European cuisine, originating as a traditional peasant pastry. They have been baked in Russia and surrounding countries for centuries and were typically made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and dairy. The cream cheese filling is a key feature of the modern version of Vatrushka, though historically, farmers might have used cottage cheese, tvorog, or even farmer’s cheese in place of the cream cheese.
Vatrushkas are often associated with Russian Orthodox holidays, such as Easter and Christmas, as well as daily life during harvest seasons. They were popular in rural communities because they were easy to make with staple ingredients found in every household. Over time, as these pastries became more popular, bakers began experimenting with different fillings, including sweetened fruits, berries, and jams, elevating the humble bun to a dessert fit for special occasions.
Cultural Significance of Vatrushka Buns
Vatrushkas are considered a symbol of comfort and warmth in Russian homes, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. In Russia, it’s common to offer guests freshly baked Vatrushka buns, especially during festive celebrations or family gatherings. The soft, slightly sweet dough and creamy cheese filling give the buns a wholesome, comforting quality that brings people together around the table.
Variation in Fillings
While the classic cream cheese filling is the most popular version of Vatrushka, there are numerous variations that you can try. Some ideas include:
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Fruit Fillings: Fresh or cooked fruit, such as apples, cherries, or raspberries, can be added to the cream cheese filling for a fruity twist. A spoonful of jam or preserves can also be added on top of the filling before baking.
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Tvorog Filling: Tvorog (a type of Russian farmer’s cheese) can replace cream cheese for a more authentic version of Vatrushka. Tvorog has a slightly tangier flavor and crumblier texture than cream cheese, which makes for a different yet delicious experience.
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Chocolate Filling: If you’re looking for something richer, try adding a layer of melted chocolate, Nutella, or chocolate chips to the filling. This makes for an indulgent treat that will satisfy chocolate lovers.
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Nut Fillings: Ground nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, mixed with sugar and a touch of vanilla or cinnamon, can be incorporated into the cream cheese filling for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Vatrushka buns are versatile and can be served in many different ways:
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As a Breakfast Item: These buns pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them an ideal breakfast or brunch pastry. Add some fruit and yogurt on the side for a balanced meal.
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For Special Occasions: Serve these buns at your next family gathering, holiday celebration, or dinner party. Their golden-brown appearance and delightful filling will impress guests and make the event feel extra special.
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As a Snack: Vatrushka buns make a delicious afternoon snack. Whether you enjoy them as-is or pair them with a light fruit salad, they’re perfect for when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
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Gift Idea: If you’re looking for a homemade gift, these buns make a beautiful and thoughtful present for friends or family. Wrap them up in parchment paper with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 250 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 12g (including 7g saturated fat)
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 8g
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Sodium: 180mg
While these buns are indulgent, they are a relatively moderate dessert when enjoyed in moderation. The dough provides a bit of protein from the eggs, while the cream cheese filling adds a dose of calcium and fat. If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count or make the buns a bit lighter, you could experiment with using reduced-fat cream cheese or replacing some of the butter in the dough with applesauce or a neutral oil.
Tips for Customization
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading, let the dough rise, punch it down, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the filling and baking steps.
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Vegan Version: If you’re looking to make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the egg yolks in the dough with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese. Vegan options are available for many ingredients now, so it’s easy to make this recipe fit a plant-based diet.
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Flavor Boosters: To elevate the flavor, you can add citrus zest (like lemon or orange) to the cream cheese filling or mix in a bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy aroma.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
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Dough Is Too Sticky: If your dough feels too sticky and difficult to work with, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Be cautious not to add too much, as this could affect the texture.
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Buns Won’t Rise: Ensure that your yeast is active and the milk is at the correct temperature (around 110°F or 43°C). If the yeast mixture doesn’t foam after a few minutes, it may be inactive, and you should start over with fresh yeast.
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Filling Is Runny: If your cream cheese filling becomes too runny, try chilling it in the fridge before adding it to the buns. This helps it firm up, and it will hold its shape better as the buns bake.
Storage and Reheating
Vatrushka buns are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with their warm centers and soft dough. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored for later enjoyment. To store them at room temperature, simply place the buns in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. When reheating, you can either warm the buns in the microwave for a few seconds or heat them in the oven until they are warmed through.
Conclusion
Russian cream cheese vatrushka buns are a delightful and nostalgic treat that brings together the best of Eastern European pastry-making traditions. With their light, fluffy dough and creamy cheese filling, these buns are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply as a sweet indulgence, vatrushki will bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your kitchen. By following a few simple tips and techniques, you can recreate this traditional pastry and share it with friends and family, creating new memories to cherish for years to come.
Vatrushka buns are a versatile pastry that can be customized with a variety of fillings and flavorings, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. So, why not try making these delicious buns today and enjoy a taste of Eastern Europe in your own home?