Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls for Flavorful Snacking

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something truly special about the combination of cheesy goodness and a spicy kick that tantalizes your taste buds. Imagine pulling apart warm, fluffy buns filled with melting mozzarella, mature cheddar, and a burst of flavor from gochujang a Korean chili paste that adds a rich depth unlike anything you ve experienced before. I first discovered this irresistible recipe for Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls when I wanted to shake up my baking routine, and it has since become a staple in my kitchen.

With an easy-to-follow method that includes a wonderfully stretchy tangzhong dough, these swirls are simple enough to whip up on a cozy weekend yet impressive enough to serve at a gathering. Whether you re looking for a snack to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite show or a delectable addition to your next brunch, these swirls will have everyone coming back for more. Let s dive into this delightful recipe that celebrates the flavors of home-cooked comfort food with an exciting twist!

Why will you love these Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls?

Irresistible Combination: The fusion of savory cheese and spicy gochujang creates a flavor explosion that s simply unforgettable.

Easy to Make: This recipe features a straightforward method, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.

Perfect for Sharing: These swirls are great for gatherings, sure to impress guests and leave them wanting more.

Versatile Snacking: Enjoy them as a tasty appetizer or a unique side dish with your favorite meals.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it s game night or a family dinner, these swirls guarantee smiles!

Once you try these, you ll want to explore more enticing snacks!

Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Ingredients

Gather the essentials to create mouthwatering Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls that everyone will love!

For the Dough

• 30g strong flour (1) This flour helps create a stretchy dough for the swirls.
• 90ml water Provides moisture to activate the flour.
• 100g whole milk Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
• 50g egg (1 medium egg) Acts as a binding agent for the ingredients.
• 40g gochujang paste Brings a delightful spicy kick and umami flavor.
• 20g sesame oil Adds a nutty aroma that complements the other ingredients.
• 370g strong flour (2) The main flour for structure, ensuring the swirls hold together.
• 30g caster sugar A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 4g fast action dried yeast Helps the dough rise quickly for light, fluffy buns.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika Infuses a subtle smoky flavor into the dough.
• 5g salt Enhances the overall taste of the swirls.
• 20g butter Gives a tender texture and rich flavor to the dough.

For the Filling

• 100g grated mozzarella Melts beautifully for a gooey filling that pulls apart.
• 100g grated mature cheddar Adds sharpness and depth to the cheesy flavor.
• 100g chopped spring onions Provides a fresh, oniony bite that lifts the flavor profile.

For the Egg Wash

• 1 egg yolk Gives a golden top to the swirls when baked.
• 1 tsp milk Thins the egg yolk for an easy-to-apply wash.

For Topping

• 30g honey Adds a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the savory elements.
• 2 tsp light soy sauce Complements the flavors of the filling and adds moisture.
• 30g butter Drizzled on top for extra moisture and richness after baking.
• Black and white sesame seeds Adds a crunchy texture and decorative touch.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you re set to make Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls that will undoubtedly elevate your snacking experience!

How to Make Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls

1. Prepare the Tangzhong: Combine the water and 30g of strong flour in a pan. Heat while whisking until it thickens, forming a smooth mixture about 2-3 minutes over medium heat.

2. Transfer the Mixture: Carefully transfer the hot tangzhong to the bowl of a stand mixer. This will enrich your dough with moisture and create a wonderfully fluffy texture.

3. Add Ingredients: Weigh in the remaining ingredients, making sure to keep the salt and yeast at opposite sides of the bowl. This stops the salt from inhibiting the yeast s action.

4. Mix the Dough: Mix with the dough hook on low speed until combined. Increase the speed to medium/high and knead for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy.

5. Let It Proof: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased container, cover it, and let it proof until it s doubled in size approximately 1 hour at room temperature.

6. Refrigerate (Optional): If desired, you can refrigerate the dough overnight for enhanced flavor. If using immediately, proceed to the next step.

7. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 14 x14 square. It should be thin but not see-through, allowing for easy handling.

8. Spread the Gochujang: Spread a thin layer of gochujang paste over the dough, leaving a 1-inch strip uncovered on one side. The paste adds a beautiful depth and spice!

9. Add the Filling: Evenly sprinkle the grated mozzarella, mature cheddar, and chopped spring onions over the gochujang paste. Remember to leave that 1-inch strip uncovered!

10. Roll Up the Dough: Press the naked strip of dough down, then carefully roll the dough up starting from the side furthest away. This will create the swirls!

11. Cut the Swirls: Trim the ends of the log and slice it into 1.5 pieces. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts for nice edges.

12. Arrange for Proofing: Place the slices in a baking sheet, leaving a 1.5cm gap between each bun. This will allow them to expand without sticking together.

13. Second Proofing: Let the swirls prove for at least an hour, until they are nicely puffed up and fluffy.

14. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 °C (fan)/360 °F, so it s hot and ready to bake your delightful swirls.

15. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the swirls with your egg wash for a beautiful golden color, then bake for 20-25 minutes until they re golden brown and puffed.

16. Prepare the Topping Mix: While the buns are baking, mix together the soy sauce and honey in a bowl, and melt the butter separately.

17. Finish with a Glaze: Once the swirls are baked, brush them with the honey mixture followed by the melted butter. Top with sesame seeds to add a delicious crunch.

Optional: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls

• Perfect Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is well-kneaded until it s smooth and elastic. This helps create the lovely texture crucial for Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls.

• Don t Rush Proofing: Allow the dough to double in size during proofing. Rushing this step may lead to dense swirls that lack lightness and fluffiness.

• Even Filling Distribution: Spread your fillings evenly, leaving the required 1-inch strip uncovered. This ensures every swirl has an equal burst of flavor!

• Sharp Knife Cuts: Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled dough. Clean cuts help maintain the shape of your swirls as they bake, resulting in beautiful presentation.

• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference. Experiment and discover your perfect balance!

• Glaze for Shine: Brushing the baked swirls with the honey-soy mixture adds not only flavor but a beautiful glossy finish that makes them irresistible.

What to Serve with Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls?

Imagine your family and friends gathering around a table, the aroma of warm, cheesy swirls in the air, and delightful flavors dancing together.

• Refreshing Salad: A crisp cucumber and radish salad brings a light and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the swirls. The crunch and freshness cleanse the palate beautifully!

• Spicy Dipping Sauce: Serve with a soy-garlic dipping sauce that enhances the savory notes of the swirls. It adds an extra layer of zing that will have everyone reaching for more.

• Savory Soup: A bowl of miso soup complements the swirls perfectly, offering earthy flavors that harmonize with the gochujang and cheese. It s a comforting pairing that warms the soul!

• Roasted Vegetables: Honey-glazed roasted carrots and broccoli play up the sweetness while providing a tender, charred contrast to the swirls. The sweetness in the veggies balances the soft, cheesy bites.

• Chilled Brew: Pair with a light, crisp beer or a refreshing iced green tea. These drinks enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish, making every bite delightful.

• Decadent Dessert: Finish off your meal with a light vanilla panna cotta. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness are a perfect conclusion after the bold flavors of your meal.

Create a vibrant dining experience by mixing and matching these pairing suggestions with your Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls!

Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delightful swirls your own with these fun twists!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.

• Herbed Twist: Add fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley into the cheese filling for a fragrant, fresh flavor that brightens the dish.

• Spicy Kick: Mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the gochujang for an extra spicy adventure!

• Savory Additions: Incorporate crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms into the filling for a heartier, savory bite that everyone will love.

• Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle a little chili honey over the finished swirls for a sweet heat that perfectly complements the cheesy base.

• Vegetable Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the filling to sneak in some extra veggies that bring additional flavors and colors.

• Garlic Lovers: Mix crushed garlic into the butter glaze to impart a deliciously aromatic layer that enhances the swirls beautifully.

• Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some crushed peanuts or walnuts over the top before baking for a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor that makes every bite unique.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and don t hesitate to make them your family s new favorites!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and letting it rise, then refrigerating it overnight; this enhances the flavor while keeping the dough fresh. Additionally, after rolling and cutting the swirls, arrange them on a baking sheet and cover them tightly to refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you re ready to bake, simply let them prove for about an hour at room temperature before brushing with egg wash and popping them in the oven. This method ensures your swirls are just as fluffy and delicious as if made on the same day!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls

Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the swirls within a day, keep them in a covered container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for up to 2 days.

Fridge: To preserve the swirls for longer, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can maintain their taste and texture for about 3-4 days.

Freezer: For prolonged storage, freeze the baked swirls in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months without losing their delightful flavor.

Reheating: To revive the frozen Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the best results?
Use strong flour, which has a higher protein content, to help create a stretchy and elastic dough. This ensures your Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls rise beautifully and have that fluffy bite we all adore.

How should I store leftover swirls?
If you plan to eat the swirls within a day, simply store them in a covered container at room temperature, where they ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. For longer storage, transfer them to an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid sogginess.

Can I freeze the swirls? How do I do that?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cheesy Gochujang & Spring Onion Swirls, let them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each swirl individually in plastic wrap (to prevent freezer burn) and place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my dough doesn t rise?
If your dough isn t rising, check several factors: first, ensure your yeast isn t expired active yeast is crucial for a successful rise. Secondly, make sure your mixture wasn t too hot when combined; excessive heat can kill the yeast. A warm environment (around 75 °F-80 °F) is ideal for proofing, so find a cozy spot like an oven with the light on!

Are these swirls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
While this specific recipe calls for strong flour (which contains gluten), you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that are designed for baking. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on the gluten-free flour package for best results.

What can I substitute for gochujang if I can t find it?
If you can t get your hands on gochujang, you can make a quick substitute by mixing miso paste with a bit of chili powder and honey to mimic the sweet and spicy flavor of gochujang. This won t be identical, but it works surprisingly well in a pinch!