Name: Vatrushka Buns (Mom’s Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1 1/2 tbsp active dry yeast; 2 cups warm milk (110°F); 1/2 cup sugar (divided); 3 eggs; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tsp salt; 5 cups all-purpose flour (may need more depending on brand); 3 tbsp oil (avocado or canola); 16 oz cream cheese (room temperature); 16 oz farmer’s cheese or cottage cheese; 2 eggs; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 cup golden raisins (optional, soaked)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 37 reviews

If you’re craving a delightful, tender treat that melts in your mouth with a luscious sweet cheese center, you are in for a real joy with this Vatrushka Buns (Mom’s Recipe) Recipe. These Eastern European baked goods blend a fluffy, soft bun with a creamy, mildly sweet filling that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. With 30 servings, this recipe is perfect for sharing, celebrations, or simply elevating your brunch game. Each bite bursts with comfort and tradition, making these buns not just a snack but a heartfelt experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round metal bowl filled with a mixture that looks soft and creamy with a rough, slightly lumpy texture. The mixture is mostly pale yellow or off-white in color, with small dark pieces scattered unevenly throughout. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface that contrasts with the smooth, shiny finish of the metal bowl. The mixture fills the bowl almost to the top, with some areas slightly raised and uneven. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in this recipe to create a stunning balance of flavors and textures. Every element plays its part—from the yeast that helps the dough rise beautifully to the mix of cheeses that create that irresistibly creamy filling.

Active dry yeast: The magical agent that makes the dough rise and become beautifully fluffy.
Warm milk: Acts as the perfect medium to wake up the yeast and add tenderness to the dough.
Sugar: Sweetness in the dough and filling, used carefully to balance the flavors.
Eggs: Provide richness and structure to both the dough and the filling.
Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, ensuring soft, fluffy buns.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Flour: The base of the dough, chosen for its ability to develop the perfect texture.
Oil (avocado or canola): Added last to provide tenderness and a delicate crumb.
Cream cheese: The star of the filling, offering a smooth, rich texture.
Farmers cheese or cottage cheese: Adds a slight tang and curd texture that complements the cream cheese.
Golden raisins (optional): Soaked and added for a burst of natural sweetness and chewy texture.

How to Make Vatrushka Buns (Mom’s Recipe) Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Yeast Mixture

The first step to those fluffy buns is waking up the yeast. Combine the active dry yeast with warm milk heated to around 110°F and one tablespoon of sugar. Let it rest for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and alive. This process is what gives your dough the life it needs to rise magnificently.

Step 2: Mix in Eggs, Mayonnaise, Salt, and Sugar

Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, whisk in the eggs, mayonnaise, salt, and the remaining sugar. These ingredients add richness and flavor depth, ensuring your dough is anything but ordinary. The mayonnaise is a secret ingredient that keeps the buns irresistibly soft and tender.

Step 3: Add Flour Gradually and Knead

Now comes the fun part—slowly adding flour to your wet mixture, folding it in gently with a spatula. Once your flour is fully incorporated, pour in the oil. Adding oil last is crucial for texture, giving the dough just the right elasticity. Knead this mixture inside your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for at least 10 minutes until the dough feels elastic but not sticky. This kneading builds the gluten structure that makes the buns beautifully fluffy.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the dough and allow it to rest for around an hour, giving it time to double in size. This rise is essential, unlocking the dough’s volume and softness that make these buns so special.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

After the dough has risen, cut it into 30 equal pieces—it’s easiest with a dough scraper or bench knife. Shape each piece into a flattened ball and place them two inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes, preparing them for the filling and final bake.

Step 6: Hollow Out Centers for Filling

Press down in the center of each dough ball using the bottom of a glass to create a lovely hollow that will hold the sweet filling. Be sure to space your dough pieces properly so they don’t touch during baking—using two trays if necessary.

Step 7: Prepare the Cheese Filling

Whisk together cream cheese, farmers (or cottage) cheese, eggs, and sugar to create the signature filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, soak golden raisins in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, drain, and gently fold them into the mixture. This adds a burst of natural sweetness and texture that pairs perfectly with the cheese.

Step 8: Fill and Bake

Fill each hollowed bun generously with the sweet cheese mixture. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake one tray at a time for approximately 30 minutes, or until the buns turn a gorgeous golden brown. Fresh from the oven, these buns exude warmth and comfort that’s impossible to resist.

How to Serve Vatrushka Buns (Mom’s Recipe) Recipe

The image shows four round baked pastries on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each pastry has two main layers: the outer layer is a smooth, shiny, golden-brown bread base, thick and slightly raised along the edges forming a shallow round border; inside this border, there is a creamy, pale yellow filling with a soft texture, dotted evenly with small dark specks which look like raisins or chocolate chips. The pastries are close together, showing slightly different angles but all clearly displaying the contrast between the glossy crust and the creamy center. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon truly elevates these buns into a treat fit for any occasion. Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of honey add a fresh twist and balance the richness of the cheese filling with a hint of natural sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair these buns with a hot cup of black tea or freshly brewed coffee to create a classic snack experience. For a more indulgent brunch, serve alongside fresh berries or a light fruit compote to complement the creamy filling beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the vatrushka buns on a rustic wooden board or a vintage ceramic platter for an inviting display. You can also pipe a swirl of fresh cream or top each bun with a single, plump raisin or a few crushed pistachios for an extra touch of elegance and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover vatrushka buns can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them, but be sure to warm them slightly before serving to regain their soft texture.

Freezing

These buns freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months, perfect for making ahead or enjoying another day.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap the buns and place them on a baking sheet. Warm in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave them for 20 to 30 seconds for a quick, cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dough?

Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with an equal amount of plain yogurt or sour cream. These alternatives help maintain the dough’s moistness and tenderness, though the flavor may be slightly different.

Are golden raisins necessary in the filling?

Golden raisins are optional but highly recommended. They add a pleasant burst of juicy sweetness and texture that complements the creamy cheese filling wonderfully. If you prefer not to use them, feel free to omit.

What if I don’t have farmers cheese? Can I use something else?

Farmers cheese adds a bit of tang and texture, but cottage cheese is a perfect substitute. Just be sure to drain cottage cheese well to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

How long does the dough need to rise?

The initial dough rise takes about one hour until doubled in size, and a second rise after shaping lasts approximately 30 minutes. These rises ensure airy, fluffy buns and should not be rushed.

Can I make smaller or larger buns with this recipe?

Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller buns will bake faster, around 20 minutes, while larger ones may need a bit longer. Keep an eye on them until golden and cooked through.

Final Thoughts

There is something so heartwarming about baking and sharing Vatrushka Buns (Mom’s Recipe) Recipe—a timeless treasure full of love, tradition, and deliciousness. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a cozy weekend treat, these buns will quickly become a cherished favorite. So roll up your sleeves, dive into this recipe, and enjoy every sweet, cheesy bite!