Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Here’s a delicious recipe for Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls—soft, fluffy, cheesy, and perfect as a snack or side dish!

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🧀 Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)

• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 large egg

For the filling:

• 1 ½ to 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• Optional: 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions

• Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor

For brushing:

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• Optional: pinch of salt or garlic powder mixed in

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Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:

   • In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make Dough:

   • Add the softened butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.

   • Gradually add the remaining flour and knead by hand or with a stand mixer (using a dough hook) for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise:

   • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

4. Assemble Rolls:

   • Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches).

   • Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese, optional herbs, and seasonings.

   • Roll up tightly from the long side like cinnamon rolls. Cut into 12 equal pieces.

5. Second Rise:

   • Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

6. Bake:

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is bubbling.

7. Finish:

   • Brush hot rolls with melted butter (optional: add a sprinkle of sea salt or garlic powder).

   • Let cool slightly before serving.

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🔁 Variations:

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños with the cheese.

• Bacon Cheddar Rolls: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the filling.

• Mini Bites: Slice thinner for smaller, bite-sized rolls.

Would you like a version with sourdough starter or make-ahead instructions?