Cheddar Cheese Rolls Made Simple

 Cheddar Cheese Rolls Made Simple

Soft, fluffy rolls topped with golden, melty cheddar—perfect for dinner, brunch, or anytime you need cheesy comfort!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 cup (240ml) warm milk (around 105–115°F / 40–46°C)

2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 standard packet)

1 tbsp granulated sugar

½ tsp salt

¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 large egg, room temperature

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

For the Topping:

1½ cups (170g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Tools You'll Need

Mixing bowl (large)

Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, but helpful)

Whisk

Rimmed baking sheet

Pastry brush

Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Instructions

🥣 Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Pour the warm milk into a large bowl. Stir in the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. If it bubbles, your yeast is good to go!

🥄 Step 2: Mix the Dough

Stir in the melted butter, egg, and salt until well combined. Gradually add the flour, about one cup at a time, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.

🤲 Step 3: Knead Until Smooth

Using a stand mixer: Attach the dough hook and knead on low-medium speed for 5–7 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.

By hand: Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Dough should feel slightly tacky, but not stick to your hands.

⏳ Step 4: Let It Rise

Lightly grease a clean bowl and place the dough inside, flipping once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

🧽 Step 5: Shape & Second Rise

Punch down the dough gently to release trapped air. Divide into 12–14 equal portions (about 60–70g each), and roll into smooth balls. Arrange on a greased baking sheet about 2 inches apart (or closer if you want them pull-apart style). Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffed.

🔥 Step 6: Preheat & Prep

About 15 minutes before the rolls finish rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt the butter for brushing.

🧀 Step 7: Add the Cheese Topping

Brush each roll with melted butter, then generously sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of each. Make sure they’re well coated for that irresistible cheesy crust.

🍞 Step 8: Bake to Golden Goodness

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the rolls are golden on the edges and the cheese is bubbly, melty, and slightly crispy.

❄️ Step 9: Cool & Enjoy

Transfer the hot rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm—and prepare to make another batch soon!

✅ Pro Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.

These rolls freeze beautifully—just reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes at 350°F.

For extra flavor, mix garlic powder or chopped herbs into the butter before brushing!