Wild Blueberry Ricotta Sweet Buns

Wild Blueberry Ricotta Sweet Buns are a soft, pillowy treat filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and a swirl of sweet, tangy wild blueberry sauce. Inspired by classic Eastern European pastries, these buns are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an elegant dessert. Their golden crust and vibrant filling make them just as beautiful as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the richness of ricotta with the natural tartness of wild blueberries

• Uses a soft, enriched dough for a bakery-quality result

• Perfect for special occasions or weekend baking projects

• Can be served warm or at room temperature

• A creative twist on classic sweet buns or cheese-filled pastries

• Versatile and customizable with different fruits or cheese options

• An excellent make-ahead treat that stores well

• Ideal for showcasing seasonal or frozen blueberries

• Offers a balance of sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors

• A satisfying project for beginner or seasoned bakers alike

Ingredients

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

• Active dry yeast

• Warm water

• Milk

• Granulated sugar

• Kosher salt

• Egg yolks

• All-purpose flour

• Salted butter, softened

• Egg and heavy cream (for egg wash)

• Fresh or frozen wild blueberries

• Lemon juice

• Water

• Ricotta cheese

• Large egg

• Vanilla extract

• Cornstarch

• Heavy cream

Directions

1. Make the Dough:
   Combine the yeast with warm water and let it bloom. In a separate saucepan, warm the milk, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Mix the milk mixture with egg yolks and the bloomed yeast. Add flour gradually and knead in softened butter until the dough is smooth. Let it rise until doubled in size.

2. Prepare Blueberry Sauce:
   In a small saucepan, cook blueberries with sugar, lemon juice, and water until the mixture thickens slightly. Allow to cool.

3. Mix Ricotta Filling:
   Combine ricotta, egg, sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and heavy cream until smooth.

4. Shape the Buns:
   Divide the dough into equal portions, roll into balls, and place on a baking sheet. Let rise again. Press an indentation in the center of each bun.

5. Assemble:
   Spoon the ricotta mixture into the center of each bun, then top with blueberry sauce. Brush the dough edges with egg wash.

6. Bake:
   Bake in a preheated oven until the buns are puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 buns

• Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: About 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

• Swap wild blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or cherries

• Use quark, cottage cheese, or mascarpone in place of ricotta

• Add lemon zest to the filling for extra brightness

• Use puff pastry or crescent dough for a shortcut

• Drizzle with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped buns for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen blueberries before using to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

What is the best substitute for ricotta cheese?

Quark, mascarpone, or full-fat cottage cheese can be used as substitutes.

Can I add spices to the filling?

Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth to the ricotta filling.

Do I need to use wild blueberries?

Wild blueberries have a stronger flavor, but regular blueberries work just as well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend suitable for yeasted dough.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. You can double all ingredients to make 24 buns. Use two baking sheets.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Create deep enough wells in the dough and avoid overfilling to help the filling stay in place.

Can I use this dough for other fillings?

Yes, this sweet dough is versatile and can be used with sweet or savory fillings.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, store-bought bread or pastry dough can be used as a shortcut, though texture may vary.

Conclusion

Wild Blueberry Ricotta Sweet Buns bring together the delicate flavors of creamy cheese and vibrant berries in a soft, golden-baked pastry. With their rustic elegance and satisfying richness, they’re perfect for special occasions or cozy mornings at home. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or saved for later, these buns are sure to impress and delight.