These golden cheese-stuffed rolls are a delightful combination of soft, slightly sweet dough and a warm, gooey cheese filling. Perfect for a quick snack, a comforting appetizer, or a simple meal addition, these rolls are easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. The warm, melted cheese nestled within the tender, golden crust makes each bite a moment of pure comfort.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 400 ml warm milk (105-115°F or 40-46°C)
- 15 grams granulated sugar
- 10 grams dry active yeast
- 480 grams all-purpose wheat flour, plus extra for dusting
- 8 grams salt
- 20 grams olive oil
- 200 grams mozzarella cheese or cheddar cheese, or a combination, cut into small cubes or grated
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, for egg wash
Directions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, pour the warm milk. Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Add the granulated sugar and dry active yeast to the warm milk.
- Gently stir the mixture to dissolve the sugar and yeast.
- Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes, or until a frothy layer forms on the surface. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Add the all-purpose wheat flour and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Mix the ingredients together using a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Add the olive oil to the dough, and continue to mix until it is incorporated.
- The dough should start to come together and form a cohesive mass.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- During kneading, the dough will transform from a sticky mass into a smooth, pliable ball.
- The dough should feel soft and springy to the touch.
- First Rise:
- Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil.
- Place the kneaded dough in the greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free place to rise for 30-40 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- The warm environment helps the yeast to work its magic, allowing the dough to rise properly.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release any trapped air.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into equal-sized portions, about 8-10 pieces, depending on the desired size of the rolls.
- Shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath.
- Flatten each ball slightly with your hand or a rolling pin to create a small disc.
- Place a small piece or a spoonful of grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese in the center of each flattened dough piece.
- Carefully gather the edges of the dough and bring them together in the center, pinching them tightly to seal the cheese inside.
- Flip the dough ball over, and gently reshape it into a smooth, round roll.
- Second Rise and Egg Wash:
- Place the filled dough balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each roll to allow for expansion during baking.
- Mix the egg yolk and vegetable oil together in a small bowl to create the egg wash.
- Brush the tops of each dough roll generously with the egg wash. This will give the rolls a beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy finish.
- Allow the rolls to rest for 10-15 minutes while the oven preheats. This brief second rise will help the rolls become even lighter and fluffier.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Bake the rolls for approximately 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- The cheese inside should be melted and bubbly, and the dough should be cooked through.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
- These rolls are best served warm, when the cheese is still gooey and the dough is soft.
Nutritional Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sodium: 300-400mg
- Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
The Origins and Popularity of Recipe:
The concept of cheese-filled bread has ancient roots, with various cultures creating similar dishes throughout history. The basic idea of encasing a filling within a dough is a fundamental culinary technique. These cheese-stuffed rolls, in particular, draw inspiration from various bread and pastry traditions, combining the simplicity of a basic dough with the comforting appeal of melted cheese. The popularity of these rolls stems from their versatility and universal appeal. They are easy to prepare, making them a favorite for home cooks looking for a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer. The combination of soft, slightly sweet dough and gooey, melted cheese is a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for gatherings and family meals. The ease of customization, with various cheese and filling options, has further contributed to their widespread popularity. The comfort and warmth these rolls provide make them a staple in many households.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Easy: This recipe requires basic ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for beginners.
- Comforting and Delicious: The combination of soft dough and melted cheese is simply irresistible.
- Versatile: These rolls can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal.
- Customizable: You can experiment with different cheeses and fillings to create your own variations.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are great for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Health Benefits Of:
- Protein Source: The cheese filling provides a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Calcium Rich: Cheese is also a rich source of calcium, which is vital for bone health.
- Carbohydrates for Energy: The dough provides carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy.
- Satisfying Meal: The combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats makes these rolls a satisfying and filling snack or meal.
Serving Suggestions Of:
- Snack: Enjoy these rolls warm as a satisfying snack between meals.
- Appetizer: Serve them as a delicious appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Side Dish: Pair them with soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
- Breakfast: Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a warm and comforting breakfast.
- Picnics: Pack them for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
Tips:
- Use Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic for a soft and light texture.
- Allow Sufficient Rising Time: Give the dough ample time to rise in a warm place for optimal results.
- Seal the Filling Properly: Ensure the edges of the dough are tightly sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking during baking.
- Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Variations to Try:
- Garlic Herb Cheese: Add minced garlic and dried herbs to the cheese filling.
- Spicy Cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese filling.
- Ham and Cheese: Add diced ham to the cheese filling for a savory twist.
- Spinach and Cheese: Add sautéed spinach to the cheese filling for a nutritious variation.
- Sweet Rolls: Use a sweet filling like Nutella or jam and dust with powdered sugar after baking.
Conclusion:
These golden cheese-stuffed rolls are a delightful and versatile baked treat that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Their simple preparation, customizable filling, and comforting taste make them a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a delicious appetizer, or a comforting meal addition, these rolls are sure to impress.