Ingredients

200 milliliters (about ¾ cup) warm milk
200 milliliters (about ¾ cup) warm water
80 grams (about ⅓ cup) sugar
A pinch of salt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
600 grams (about 4 ¾ cups) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
30 grams (about 2 tablespoons) butter, softened
2 teaspoons vinegar (9%)
40 grams (about 3 tablespoons) butter for topping
140 grams (about 5 oz) cream cheese, softened
40 grams (about 3 tablespoons) butter for cream
40 grams (about ½ cup) powdered sugar

Ingredient Notes

Using warm milk and water helps activate the yeast effectively, leading to a fluffy texture. The sugar not only sweetens but also feeds the yeast, promoting a better rise. If you need a substitute for milk, almond or oat milk can work well, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Electric mixer (optional, for the cream cheese topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, salt, eggs, yeast, flour, baking powder, 30 grams of butter, and vinegar. Stir until combined.
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should spring back when poked. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle with a little additional flour, but avoid over-flouring.
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm spot for 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into portions (about 12-16 pieces) and shape them into rolls or your desired shape. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
While the baked goods cool, make the cream topping. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 40 grams of butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy.
Once the baked goods have cooled slightly, spread the cream topping generously on each piece. Serve and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free area; the oven turned off but with the light on can be a great spot.
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture.
Keep an eye on the baked goods in the oven towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.

Common Mistakes

Not allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment can lead to dense baked goods.
Adding too much flour can make the dough dry; it should be tacky but not overly sticky.
Not preheating the oven can affect the texture; always make sure it’s fully heated before baking.

Variations

Add in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
Experiment with spices such as cinnamon to complement the cream cheese topping.
For savory options, consider adding herbs and cheese directly into the dough.

Serving Suggestions

These baked goods are wonderful as is, but they truly shine when paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make perfect breakfast treats when served alongside fresh fruits.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, they can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Reheating Tips

To refresh leftovers, simply wrap them in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition Estimate

Approximate per serving:
Calories: 220
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 10g

This is a comforting recipe that brings a touch of warmth to any occasion, reminding you of the simple pleasures of baking. Enjoy trying it out and making it your own!

Creamy Baked Goods for Everyday Desserts