Cheddar cheese rolls

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Cheddar Cheese Rolls: Soft, Fluffy, and Packed with Flavor

Cheddar cheese rolls are the kind of baked treat that instantly fills your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma. Golden on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, and loaded with rich, melty cheddar, these rolls are perfect as a side dish, snack, or even a base for mini sandwiches. Whether you’re serving them with soup, at a family dinner, or enjoying them fresh out of the oven, they’re always a hit.

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making perfect cheddar cheese rolls from scratch.

Ingredients

To make about 12 rolls, you’ll need:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm milk (not hot)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
1 large egg
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works best)

Optional topping:

Extra shredded cheddar
Melted butter for brushing

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by pouring the warm milk into a bowl. Add the sugar and yeast, then stir gently.

Let the mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes foamy on top. If nothing happens, your yeast might be inactive, and you’ll need to start again.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and the activated yeast mixture.

Mix everything together until a rough dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8–10 minutes.

The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little flour (a tablespoon at a time).

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap.

Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Add the Cheddar Cheese

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air.

Flatten it slightly and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Fold and knead the dough lightly just enough to distribute the cheese evenly throughout.