Introduction
Soft, golden, and packed with cheesy goodness, Cheddar Cheese Rolls are the perfect comfort food. Whether served as a side dish for soup, pasta, or enjoyed on their own, these rolls are irresistibly fluffy and full of savory flavor. Simple to make and deliciously satisfying, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
All-purpose flour – 3 cups
Warm milk – 1 cup (around 110°F / 43°C)
Active dry yeast – 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
Sugar – 2 tablespoons
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons (softened)
Egg – 1 large
Shredded cheddar cheese – 1½ cups (sharp or mild, depending on taste)
Garlic powder (optional) – ½ teaspoon
Milk or melted butter (for brushing) – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
Add the egg and yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Gradually knead in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, saving ½ cup for topping.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a roll.
Arrange the rolls on a greased baking tray. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Brush the tops with milk or melted butter, sprinkle the remaining cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
How to Make
Start by activating the yeast — this step ensures your rolls rise beautifully. The combination of warm milk, sugar, and yeast creates a bubbly base that guarantees fluffiness. Mixing in the butter and egg gives the dough a rich, tender texture. Once kneaded, the cheddar is folded in to create gooey, cheesy layers. The second rise adds volume, and baking with extra cheese on top gives these rolls their signature golden crust and cheesy pull.
Variations
Add minced garlic or herbs like parsley or chives for a savory twist.
Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend instead of cheddar.
Stuff each roll with a cube of cheese for a melty center.
Top with sesame seeds or a sprinkle of paprika before baking for added flavor.
Tips
Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
If the dough feels too sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time until it’s manageable.
Brush the rolls with butter right after baking for extra softness and shine.
Serve warm — they taste best fresh from the oven.
Conclusion
Easy Cheddar Cheese Rolls are soft, flavorful, and delightfully cheesy — a perfect addition to any meal or a quick snack on their own. With their golden crust and tender interior, these rolls bring homemade comfort and bakery-level taste right to your kitchen.