Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Cheese Filling
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated parmesan cheese
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Rolling pin
- Kitchen towel
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes. The yeast should become foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a rough dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until doubled in size.
This resting period helps develop the soft texture that makes these bread rolls so delicious.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling. In a bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix well and set aside.
The combination of mozzarella and cheddar creates the perfect balance between meltiness and flavor.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release excess air.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a small circle approximately 4 to 5 inches wide.
Place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle.
Carefully fold the edges over the filling and pinch them together to seal completely. Shape each piece into a smooth roll.
Step 6: Second Rise
Arrange the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between them for expansion.
Cover loosely with a towel and allow the rolls to rest for 30 minutes.
This second rise creates lighter, fluffier bread rolls.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash.
Brush the tops of the rolls generously with the egg wash. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Step 8: Bake
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and beautifully puffed.
The tops should have a shiny finish and the cheese inside should be fully melted.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy them warm for the ultimate cheesy experience.
Recipe Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results.
- Do not overfill the rolls, as excess cheese may leak during baking.
- Ensure the dough is properly sealed to keep the filling inside.
- For extra flavor, add chopped herbs or a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Variations
Garlic Cheese Bread Rolls
Add minced garlic and chopped parsley to the filling for a rich garlic flavor.
Spicy Cheese Bread Rolls
Mix diced jalapeños or red chili flakes into the cheese filling.
Herb Cheese Bread Rolls
Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for a fragrant herbal twist.
Three-Cheese Rolls
Combine mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for a richer cheese flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through.
These rolls can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese Bread Rolls pair wonderfully with:
- Tomato soup
- Creamy vegetable soup
- Pasta dishes
- Fresh green salads
- Scrambled eggs
- Tea or coffee
They are equally delicious as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Nutrition Information
Per Roll (Approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 180mg