If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy, and utterly comforting baked treat, these Easy Cheddar Cheese Rolls are exactly what you need. Soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and filled with gooey melted cheddar, these rolls are perfect as a side for soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on their own fresh out of the oven. What makes them even better is how simple they are to prepare — no fancy ingredients or complicated steps, just classic baking with a cheesy twist.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
-
3 cups all-purpose flour
-
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
-
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
-
¼ cup warm water
-
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
-
1 large egg
For the Filling and Topping:
-
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-
2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
-
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
-
1 teaspoon chopped parsley or chives (optional garnish)
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to give the rolls that soft, fluffy rise.
Once foamy, whisk in the melted butter and egg until well blended. Add the salt and gradually stir in the flour, one cup at a time, using a wooden spoon or the dough hook attachment of a stand mixer. Continue mixing until the dough comes together and starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
If kneading by hand, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth, soft, and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 6 minutes.
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about ½ inch thick.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs over the cheese.
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log, similar to how you would roll cinnamon rolls. Slice the log into 10–12 even pieces using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss (which cuts cleanly through the dough without squishing it).
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round pan, spacing them slightly apart. Cover and let them rise for another 25–30 minutes, allowing them to puff up beautifully before baking.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for that irresistible golden crust.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The aroma of fresh bread and melted cheddar will fill your kitchen, creating the ultimate comfort-food atmosphere.
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them again with a bit more melted butter. If desired, sprinkle with parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving — the cheese inside will be molten hot right out of the oven. Serve warm for the best experience. These rolls pair wonderfully with soups, chili, or even a simple salad. They’re also fantastic as a breakfast side with scrambled eggs and bacon.
If you’d like to make them extra special, try serving them with a little dish of garlic butter or honey butter for dipping.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
You can also freeze unbaked rolls after shaping. Place them on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before putting them in the oven.
Tips for Success
-
Use quality cheddar cheese. Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
-
Don’t overflour your dough. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. Too much flour makes dense rolls.
-
Let them rise properly. Warm environments help the yeast work faster — placing the dough near a sunny window or a slightly warm oven (turned off) is perfect.
-
Add flavor variations. Try adding cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or jalapeños with the cheese for a fun twist.
Conclusion
These Easy Cheddar Cheese Rolls are the definition of simple homemade comfort. With their buttery texture, soft crumb, and delicious cheesy filling, they strike the perfect balance between savory and satisfying. Whether you’re baking them for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just to enjoy with your morning coffee, they’ll bring warmth and joy to your table every single time.
Golden, cheesy, and effortlessly delicious — this is one recipe you’ll find yourself baking again and again.
