Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 240 grams all-purpose flour (about 1 ½ cups)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 150 milliliters warm milk (about 3/5 cup)

For the Filling:

• 150 grams grated cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• A bunch of parsley, chopped
• A small bunch of dill, chopped

For Cooking:

• 60 grams butter, melted

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Steps on How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir to mix.
2. Slowly add the warm milk to the dry ingredients, stirring as you go. You want to gradually incorporate the liquid to form a dough.
3. Once the dough starts to come together, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your pastry rolls.
4. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the dough relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.
2. Stir the ingredients together until they are well mixed. The combination of these two fresh herbs with the sharp cheddar creates a rich, aromatic filling that will elevate the flavor of the rolls.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. After the dough has rested, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle. Try to aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm) to ensure your pastry rolls are flaky but not too thick.
2. Spread the prepared cheese and herb filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to avoid spillage during rolling.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

1. Once the filling is in place, carefully roll the dough from one edge to the other, ensuring that the roll is as tight as possible without squeezing out the filling.
2. Slice the rolled dough into 6 to 8 equal pieces, depending on how large you want each pastry roll to be.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a baking tray with a small amount of butter or line it with parchment paper.
3. Place each pastry roll on the tray, making sure to leave some space between them to allow for expansion during baking.
4. Brush the top of each roll with the melted butter. This will give the rolls a beautiful golden color and a rich, buttery flavor as they bake.

Step 6: Bake the Pastry Rolls

1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
2. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-brown. The golden color is a sign of a crispy, perfectly baked pastry.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve them warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish to your favorite meal. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a hearty soup.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The beauty of stuffed pastry rolls lies in their versatility, simplicity, and flavor. This recipe is timeless because it uses ingredients that are accessible and familiar, yet the result feels like a special treat. The combination of cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, and dill creates a harmonious balance of flavors that appeals to both the young and the young at heart.

While cheese and herbs are a classic pairing, the addition of freshly made dough elevates the dish into something comforting and indulgent. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers the next day, these pastry rolls maintain their appeal. You can even make them in advance and freeze them, reheating them whenever you want a quick snack or an easy meal.

Moreover, this recipe has stood the test of time because it brings people together. The act of baking from scratch with simple ingredients connects us to traditions, and this dish feels like something that could have been prepared in kitchens for generations. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying them at a social gathering, these rolls are bound to be a conversation starter and a beloved part of any meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)

• Calories: 215 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 210 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! These rolls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. To reheat, simply bake them at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes, until they’re hot and crispy again.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a tangy twist. Adjust the amount based on the type of cheese you choose.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes, you can! To make the rolls vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter or olive oil, and choose a dairy-free cheese. For the dough, use a non-dairy milk and vegan-friendly ingredients.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh and crispy, reheat in the oven.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pastry Rolls

1. Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing and rolling out the dough, handle it gently to avoid tough rolls. The key to a flaky texture is minimal handling.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill will give the rolls a bright, fragrant flavor that dried herbs just can’t replicate. If you don’t have fresh herbs, try using a different herb combination that suits your taste.
3. Let the Dough Rest: Giving the dough time to rest helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out and resulting in a more tender pastry.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be reheated in the oven to regain their crispiness.
• Freezing: These rolls freeze well. To freeze, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from the freezer by baking at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes.

Conclusion

These Cheddar Herb Stuffed Pastry Rolls are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The balance of buttery pastry, melty cheese, and aromatic herbs makes each bite a delight, and the ease of preparation means you can enjoy them any time you want. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite.

With endless possibilities for customization and serving, these rolls can be a versatile addition to any meal. From cozy weeknight dinners to larger gatherings, they bring warmth and joy to the table. The timeless combination of cheddar cheese, herbs, and buttery dough is one that will never go out of style, making these pastry rolls a delicious classic that’s here to stay.