Sweet Cherry Filled Buns

These sweet cherry-filled buns, also known as Vatrushki, are a delightful treat that will transport you to Russia and Ukraine with every bite. With soft, fluffy dough and a sweet cherry filling, these buns are irresistible. Best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven, they have the perfect balance of sweet and tangy that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vatrushki is a beloved pastry in Russia and Ukraine, typically filled with farmer’s cheese, but this version incorporates sweet, juicy cherries for a delicious twist. The dough is incredibly soft and fluffy, and when baked, it forms a golden, slightly crunchy topping from the crumb mixture, making each bite a heavenly experience. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these cherry-filled buns are perfect for any occasion. The recipe is easy to follow and yields 16 perfectly baked buns, ideal for sharing (though you may not want to).

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Yeast Buns Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm milk, about 100˚F, not hot!

• 1/2 Tbsp active dry yeast

• 4 Tbsp granulated sugar, divided

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for dusting

• 1 egg, room temp

• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 egg, beaten with fork (for egg wash)

For the Simple Cherry Filling:

• 1 lb sweet red cherries, pitted

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp for each bun

Crumb Topping Ingredients:

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, cold, diced

• 1 Tbsp sugar

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In the bowl of an electric mixer, add 1 cup warm milk and sprinkle 1/2 Tbsp yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast activates.

2. Mix the dough: Stir in 1/2 cup flour and 2 Tbsp sugar, then whisk until blended. Let the mixture rise in a warm 100˚F oven for 20 minutes (or at room temperature for 30-45 minutes).

3. Add remaining ingredients: Whisk in 1 egg, the remaining 2 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp melted butter, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add the remaining 2 3/4 cups flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Continue mixing on low speed for 15 minutes with the dough hook.

4. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm 100˚F oven for 1 hour (or at room temperature for 2 hours), until it triples in volume.

5. Shape the buns: Transfer the dough to a non-stick surface and cut it in half. Cut each half into 8 equal pieces, for a total of 16 pieces. Shape the dough into balls.

6. Prepare the baking dish: Butter a baking dish (either two round cake pans or one 9×13 rimmed baking pan). Place the dough balls evenly spaced in the dish.

7. Make wells in the dough: Using a narrow drinking glass or small ramekin, press down the center of each dough ball to form a well.

8. Fill with cherries: Place 4 cherries in each well and sprinkle each bun with 1/2 tsp sugar.

9. Let rise again: Allow the buns to rise in a warm 100˚F oven for 20 minutes (or 30-45 minutes at room temperature) until puffed up.

10. Prepare the crumb topping: Combine the crumb topping ingredients in a medium bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to rub the butter into the flour and sugar until small crumbs form.

11. Brush and top the buns: Brush the buns with egg wash and sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the top.

12. Bake: Bake at 360˚F for 20-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 buns

• Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 22 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 42 minutes

Variations

• Different Fruit Fillings: While cherries are delicious, you can swap them out for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even apples.

• Cheese Filling: For a more traditional Vatrushki, use farmers cheese or ricotta in place of the fruit filling.

• Cinnamon Sugar: For a spiced twist, sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over the dough before adding the fruit.

• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based milk to make this recipe dairy-free. You can also use a flax egg as a substitute for the egg wash.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dough after shaping it into balls. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the remaining steps.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the buns in a 350˚F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

2. What can I use if I don’t have a dough hook?

If you don’t have a dough hook, you can mix the dough by hand. Just knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 15 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

3. How can I make sure the yeast is activated?

The yeast should bubble and foam after 5-7 minutes in warm milk (around 100˚F). If this doesn’t happen, the yeast might be expired, and you should try a fresh packet.

4. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but keep in mind that whole wheat flour can make the dough denser. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid for the right consistency.

5. How do I know when the dough is ready to bake?

The dough should be soft and not sticky to the touch. If it’s still sticky, continue kneading and adding flour slowly.

6. Can I make the crumb topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crumb topping ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

7. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, active dry yeast works fine. Just activate it in the warm milk before adding the other ingredients.

8. Why is my dough not rising?

If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to cold temperatures or expired yeast. Ensure your proofing area is warm (around 100˚F) and the yeast is fresh.

9. Can I skip the crumb topping?

While the crumb topping adds a lovely texture and sweetness, you can skip it if you prefer a simpler bun.

10. Can I make these buns smaller?

Yes, you can shape the dough into smaller pieces for mini buns. Adjust the baking time accordingly, reducing it to about 15-18 minutes.

Conclusion

These sweet cherry-filled buns (Vatrushki) are a delightful and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress anyone who tastes them. The fluffy dough combined with the burst of sweet cherries creates a mouthwatering experience, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or make your own variations, these buns are sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!