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Cheese Roll

Soft & Cheesy Homemade Cheese Rolls

L. L. Sofia
These homemade cheese rolls are soft, fluffy, buttery, and packed with melty cheese in every bite. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these rolls pair beautifully with soups, pasta, or enjoyed on their own. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a batch of golden, cheesy goodness ready to impress!
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course Party & Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 🛒 Precisely Measured Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup whole milk warm, about 105-110°F
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter softened, divided
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or cheese of choice
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt

For the Topping:

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter for brushing after baking
  • Extra flaky sea salt optional, for sprinkling on top

Instructions
 

  • 🔥 Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheese Rolls
  • Step 1: Activate the Yeast
  • Warm the milk to 105-110°F in the microwave or stovetop.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and sugar.
  • Cover with a clean towel and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • ✔️ Pro Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, the yeast is inactive—try fresh yeast!
  • Step 2: Prepare the Dough
  • Add eggs and ¼ cup softened butter to the yeast mixture.
  • Stir in 1 cup of flour and ¼ teaspoon salt, mixing until smooth.
  • Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time.
  • Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • ✔️ If the dough is sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour.
  • Step 3: First Rise
  • Grease a large bowl and place the dough inside.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
  • ✔️ Faster Rising Tip: Place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven.
  • Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Filling
  • In a bowl, mix together shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt.
  • ✔️ For extra flavor, use a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella!
  • Step 5: Shape the Cheese Rolls
  • Punch down the dough and transfer to a floured surface.
  • Roll into a 12” x 16” rectangle.
  • Spread the remaining ½ cup softened butter evenly over the dough.
  • Sprinkle the cheese mixture on top.
  • Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long edge.
  • Cut into 12 equal pieces with a sharp knife.
  • ✔️ For evenly sized rolls, cut the log in half, then divide each half into six pieces.
  • Step 6: Second Rise
  • Arrange rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
  • ✔️ This second rise makes the rolls extra fluffy!
  • Step 7: Bake the Cheese Rolls
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  • Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  • ✔️ For extra soft rolls, cover loosely with foil for the first 15 minutes.

Notes

✔️ Spicy Cheese Rolls: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
✔️ Garlic Butter Rolls: Brush with garlic-infused butter after baking.
✔️ Vegan Cheese Rolls: Use dairy-free butter and vegan cheese.
For more baking tips, check out Cottage Cheese Flatbread!