Coconut Cream Buns

These Fluffy Coconut Cream Buns are soft, golden, sugar-dusted pastries filled with a rich and velvety vanilla coconut cream. Lightly coated in shredded coconut for an extra tropical touch, these bakery-style buns are indulgent yet airy. Perfect as a tea-time treat, dessert, or special occasion delight, they bring the irresistible combination of soft bread and luscious cream together in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft & Pillowy Texture – The enriched dough creates a light, fluffy bun.
• Rich Coconut Cream Filling – A silky blend of whipped cream and coconut cream makes the filling irresistible.
• Bakery-Style Treat – These buns look and taste just like the ones from a high-end bakery.
• Tropical & Sweet – The shredded coconut coating adds an extra depth of coconut flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the buns in advance and fill them before serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Salt
• Instant yeast
• Warm milk
• Butter, softened
• Egg

For the Coconut Cream Filling

• Heavy cream
• Coconut cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

For Coating

• Granulated sugar
• Shredded coconut

Directions

Make the Dough

1. Mix the Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients – Add warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough – Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise – Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns – Divide the dough into equal portions, shape into oval buns, and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Second Rise – Let the shaped buns rise for 30 minutes until puffy.

Bake the Buns

7. Preheat & Bake – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely before filling.

Prepare the Coconut Cream Filling

8. Whip the Cream – In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until thick and fluffy.

Assemble the Coconut Cream Buns

9. Slice & Fill – Slice each bun open without cutting all the way through and pipe in the coconut cream filling.
10. Coat with Sugar & Coconut – Lightly brush the buns with melted butter (optional) and roll them in granulated sugar and shredded coconut for extra texture.

Serve & Enjoy!

11. Best Served Fresh – Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for a chilled, creamy bite!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 buns
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Coconut Buns – Add chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate over the filled buns.
• Nutty Flavor – Sprinkle toasted almonds or crushed macadamia nuts on top.
• Lemon Twist – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the coconut cream for a citrusy kick.
• Vegan Version – Use plant-based butter, coconut milk, and whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Extra Custardy – Mix pastry cream with coconut cream for a thicker, custard-like filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing – Freeze unfilled buns for up to 1 month. Defrost and fill when ready to serve.
• Reheating – If needed, warm the buns in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes before filling.

FAQs

What is the best flour for these buns?

All-purpose flour works great, but for an even softer texture, you can use bread flour.

Can I use canned coconut milk instead of coconut cream?

Yes, but coconut cream is thicker and gives a richer filling. If using coconut milk, refrigerate it first and scoop the thickened part from the top.

Why is my dough not rising properly?

Check that your yeast is fresh and that the milk is warm but not too hot (ideal temperature: 110°F/43°C).

How do I keep the cream filling from melting?

Ensure the buns are completely cool before filling. You can also refrigerate them after filling for a firmer texture.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! You can use brioche dough or Hokkaido milk bread for an even richer bun.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate overnight. Shape and proof before baking the next day.

What’s the best way to serve these buns?

They’re delicious with a cup of tea, coffee, or tropical fruit juice for a refreshing pairing.

Can I make mini coconut cream buns?

Yes! Just shape smaller buns and reduce the bake time to 10-12 minutes.

What can I use instead of granulated sugar for coating?

For a softer finish, dust with powdered sugar instead of rolling in granulated sugar.

Conclusion

These Fluffy Coconut Cream Buns are a delightful mix of pillowy bread, luscious coconut cream, and a sweet, tropical coating. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re guaranteed to impress. Try this easy bakery-style recipe today and enjoy a taste of paradise!