Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Buns

There is something about warm brioche fresh from the oven that feels almost magical. Now imagine that soft, buttery bread filled with creamy cheesecake and swirled with spiced pumpkin, then topped with buttery crumble and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for crunch. Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Buns are cozy, rich, and just the kind of treat that makes your kitchen smell like autumn wrapped in sweetness. Trust me, you’re going to love this. This one’s a total game-changer for fall baking and holiday mornings.

A Bakery Style Bun That Feels Like a Hug

The first thing you notice is the texture. The brioche is tender and pillowy, slightly golden on the outside and soft on the inside. Then comes the creamy cheesecake center, smooth and lightly tangy, balanced by the warm pumpkin spice swirl. The crumble topping adds little buttery clusters that crisp up beautifully in the oven. Add pumpkin seeds for a gentle crunch, and you have a bun that hits every texture note. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

A Sweet Fusion of Classic Brioche and Autumn Flavor

Brioche has French roots, known for its rich dough enriched with butter and eggs. Cheesecake has long been a beloved dessert across cultures, prized for its creamy texture. Pumpkin spice flavors became a seasonal favorite in North America, symbolizing comfort and harvest time. Bringing these three together creates something that feels familiar yet exciting, like a bakery special you would wait in line for.

Why This Recipe Is Worth Making

Before we dive into the details, here is why these buns deserve a spot in your baking lineup.

Versatile: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a sweet snack with coffee.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple baking staples and pantry spices.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps with clear layering.

Customizable: Adjust spice levels or add nuts for variety.

Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy filling and soft bread always impress.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough and filling can be prepared in advance.

Great for Leftovers: They reheat beautifully without drying out.

Pro Baking Tips for Perfect Results

Small details make these buns truly shine.

1. Make sure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
2. Do not overfill the centers to prevent spilling during baking.
3. Let the buns rise properly for that airy brioche texture.
4. Bake until golden brown but not overly dark to keep them soft.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Mixing Bowls: For separating dough, filling, and crumble mixtures.

Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Helps create smooth cheesecake filling.

Baking Sheet: Ensures even baking and golden bottoms.

Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and keeps cleanup simple.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy keeps the texture just right.

Ingredients You Will Need for This Recipe

Each ingredient plays a beautiful role in building flavor and texture.

1. Brioche Dough: 8 prepared brioche dough balls, forms the soft base.
2. Cream Cheese: 8 ounces softened, creates the creamy center.
3. Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup, adds moisture and autumn flavor.
4. Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup, sweetens the cheesecake filling.
5. Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, adds depth and caramel notes.
6. Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1 teaspoon, delivers warm seasonal flavor.
7. Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon, enhances the pumpkin.
8. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, balances sweetness.
9. Egg: 1 large, helps bind the cheesecake filling.
10. All Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup, forms the crumble topping.
11. Cold Butter: 2 tablespoons cubed, creates crumb texture.
12. Pumpkin Seeds: 2 tablespoons, add crunch and contrast.

Ingredient Swaps You Can Try

If you need flexibility, here are easy substitutions.

Pumpkin Puree: Sweet potato puree works well.

Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used for deeper flavor.

Pumpkin Seeds: Chopped pecans add similar crunch.

The Ingredients That Make It Special

Two elements truly define these buns.

Cream Cheese: Provides tangy richness that balances the sweetness.

Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and that unmistakable seasonal warmth.

Let’s Bake These Beautiful Buns

And now let’s dive into the baking process step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Place brioche dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
4. Assemble the Dish: Press a gentle well into the center of each dough ball. Spoon cheesecake mixture into each well, then swirl a spoonful of pumpkin mixture on top. In a small bowl, combine flour and cold butter using your fingers until crumbly, then sprinkle over buns. Finish with pumpkin seeds.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until buns are golden and filling is set.
6. Finishing Touches: Allow to cool slightly so the filling firms up.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm for the ultimate soft and creamy texture experience.

Texture and Flavor That Shine Together

The brioche stays soft and slightly buttery. The cheesecake center is creamy and lightly tangy. The pumpkin swirl adds warm spice, while the crumble topping gives a gentle crunch. Every bite is layered, soft, creamy, spiced, and just a little crisp on top.

Helpful Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
• Do not overbake, the centers should remain slightly soft.
• Press the wells gently to avoid tearing the dough.

What to Avoid

• Avoid using watery pumpkin puree, excess moisture affects texture.
• Do not skip chilling the butter for the crumble.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet.

Nutrition Facts Overview

Servings: 8 buns
Calories per serving: Approximately 380

Note: These values are approximate.

Preparation Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the filling and crumble a day ahead and refrigerate. Store baked buns in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F to restore softness. These can also be frozen and thawed before reheating.

How to Serve These Buns

Serve warm with coffee or tea. Add a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. They also pair beautifully with a simple vanilla glaze drizzle.

Creative Leftover Ideas

Slice and toast lightly for a crisp exterior. Cube and use in a sweet bread pudding. Warm and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Additional Tips for Extra Flavor

Add a pinch of nutmeg to the pumpkin mixture. Mix a spoonful of maple syrup into the cheesecake filling for warmth. Sprinkle a tiny bit of coarse sugar on top before baking for sparkle.

Make Them a Showstopper

Drizzle a thin vanilla glaze over the cooled buns. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board and sprinkle a few extra pumpkin seeds on top for visual contrast.

Variations to Try

1. Add white chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling.
2. Mix chopped pecans into the crumble.
3. Add a cream cheese glaze instead of crumble.
4. Swirl in apple butter for a different fall twist.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use store bought brioche buns?

Yes, just create a well in the center before filling.

Q2: Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.

Q3: Can I freeze them?

Absolutely, freeze after baking and reheat when needed.

Q4: Why did my filling crack?

Overbaking can cause cracking, remove once set.

Q5: Can I reduce the sugar?

Slightly, but it may affect texture.

Q6: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?

Pure pumpkin puree is recommended for better control of sweetness.

Q7: How do I keep them soft?

Store in an airtight container.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use two baking sheets.

Q9: What if my dough spreads too much?

Ensure proper spacing and gentle handling.

Q10: Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts work beautifully.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cheesecake Brioche Buns bring together soft buttery bread, creamy cheesecake, and warm pumpkin spice in the most comforting way. They look bakery worthy, taste incredible, and fill your kitchen with the coziest aroma. Once you make them, they quickly become a fall favorite you look forward to every year.

Print