Cheese-Filled Soft Bread Rolls: A Warm, Comforting Treat
Bread has long been associated with comfort, community, and sustenance, and there’s nothing quite as inviting as the aroma of freshly baked rolls filling the air. These Cheese-Filled Soft Bread Rolls take the classic bread-making experience to the next level with a soft, buttery dough and a delicious, gooey cheese filling. The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and butter creates a savory treat that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Whether paired with a warm bowl of soup, served as a side to a fresh salad, or enjoyed simply with a cup of tea or coffee, these rolls are sure to please.
Bread-making is an art form, and while the process requires patience, it’s also incredibly rewarding. With simple ingredients, you can create a bakery-worthy roll that’s perfect for any occasion. These Cheese-Filled Soft Bread Rolls are a great way to practice the techniques of bread-making while indulging in a comforting, cheesy delight.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 10 grams dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar (20 grams)
- 1 glass warm milk (200 ml)
- 1 glass warm water (200 ml)
- 1/2 tea glass oil (50 ml)
- 6 cups flour (720 grams)
- 1 teaspoon salt (8 grams)
For the Filling:
- 150 grams butter, softened
- 150 grams cream cheese, softened
- 100 grams cheddar cheese, grated
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon milk
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Calories (Per Serving): Approximately 220 kcal
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by preparing the yeast mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar, and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. The yeast should become frothy during this time, indicating that it’s activated and ready to be used in the dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, add oil to the yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough begins to form. Once the dough has come together, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. Kneading is essential as it helps develop the gluten, ensuring the bread has a tender yet firm texture.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, then cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial, as the yeast needs time to ferment and cause the dough to rise, making it light and airy.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well-combined. This creamy mixture will form the delicious, cheesy core of each roll.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and then divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small circle, about 4 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each circle. Carefully pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside. Shape the dough into a ball and place each filled dough ball onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Leave space between the rolls to allow for further rising.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 20-30 minutes. This second rise allows the rolls to become soft and pillowy while ensuring that the cheese filling is evenly distributed inside each roll.
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. This mixture will be brushed over the tops of the rolls before baking, giving them a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish.
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have finished rising, brush them generously with the egg yolk mixture. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as the goal is to achieve a soft, tender roll with a slightly crispy exterior.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking tray. Serve the rolls warm for the best experience—fresh out of the oven, they will have a golden exterior and a soft, cheesy interior that is irresistibly gooey. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as an accompaniment to a soup or salad.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Bread is a fundamental food that transcends cultures, and filled bread rolls are an evolution of this beloved tradition. These Cheese-Filled Soft Bread Rolls take the classic bread recipe and elevate it by incorporating a rich, creamy filling. The result is a warm, comforting treat that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
The combination of a soft, airy dough and a flavorful, cheesy filling makes these rolls an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a dinner party, or simply enjoying them on your own, they’re sure to be a hit. The process of kneading, shaping, and baking fosters a connection to the time-honored craft of bread-making, reminding us of the simple joys of creating something from scratch.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Final Thoughts
These Cheese-Filled Soft Bread Rolls are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The fluffy texture and gooey cheese filling make them a luxurious treat, while the straightforward preparation and familiar ingredients make them accessible for bakers of all levels. Whether you enjoy them on their own or paired with a meal, these rolls are sure to become a cherished part of your baking repertoire. Enjoy!