These cheese-filled savory bread rolls are the ultimate combination of simplicity and deliciousness. With a soft, fluffy homemade dough and a rich, creamy cheese filling made from a blend of cream cheese and mozzarella, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or serving guests. It requires minimal effort, no heavy kneading, and uses everyday ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to making homemade bread, this recipe guarantees warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven satisfaction every time.
In Brazil, these savory rolls are often found in bakeries and home kitchens, known for their pillowy texture and comforting flavor. Made with love and baked to perfection, this dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special.
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 20 minutes (for dough rising)
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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200 ml warm water (not hot)
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½ tablespoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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½ tablespoon dry active yeast (bread yeast)
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3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
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Approximately 350 g all-purpose flour (about 2¾ cups), added gradually
For the Filling:
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150 g cream cheese (or requeijão)
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150 g shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional for Topping:
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1 egg yolk (for brushing)
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Oregano, sesame seeds, or grated Parmesan for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Dough Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the warm water. Stir in the salt, sugar, and yeast. Mix until the yeast is fully dissolved. -
Add Oil
Pour in the oil and stir again. You can use olive oil for added flavor. -
Add the Flour Gradually
Begin incorporating the flour, a little at a time, stirring continuously until the dough begins to form. -
Knead Lightly
Turn the dough onto a lightly oiled surface and knead gently just until the flour is fully absorbed. The dough should be soft, not sticky, and pliable. Avoid over-kneading. -
First Resting Period
Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rest for about 10–15 minutes. It should begin to puff up slightly. -
Divide the Dough
After resting, divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a ball. -
Shape the Rolls
Place each dough ball on a greased baking tray (or lined with parchment paper). Flatten the center slightly with your fingers to create a well for the filling. -
Add the Filling
Spoon or pipe about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese into each center. Top with a generous pinch of shredded mozzarella. -
Final Resting Time
Let the filled buns rest for another 10 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). -
Optional Egg Wash and Toppings
If desired, brush each roll with egg yolk for a glossy finish and sprinkle with herbs or cheese. -
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and puffed. -
Cool and Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for maximum deliciousness!
Nutritional Information (Per roll, approx.)
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Calories: 260 kcal
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Protein: 9 g
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Carbohydrates: 28 g
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Fat: 12 g
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 1.5 g
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Sodium: 390 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
These cheese-filled bread rolls are a common comfort food in many Latin American and European households. Variants are seen across Brazil, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. In Brazil, they’re often filled with requeijão or catupiry cheese and sold in bakeries as savory snacks. Their popularity has grown globally because of how easy and versatile they are — perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Quick to Make: Ready in just over an hour with minimal rising.
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No Special Equipment Needed: Just a bowl and your hands.
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Flexible Filling Options: Works well with cheese, ham, veggies, or even sweet fillings.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults love the soft bread and cheesy center.
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Freezer-Friendly: Great for make-ahead meals or lunchbox snacks.
Health Benefits
While not a health food, these buns can be made healthier by:
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Using whole wheat flour for extra fiber
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Adding herbs or veggies like spinach for nutrients
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Choosing low-fat or plant-based cheese alternatives
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Baking instead of frying, making them lower in saturated fats
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm for breakfast with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Add a side salad for a light lunch.
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Slice in half and fill with tomato and lettuce for a quick sandwich.
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Serve on a party platter alongside dips like marinara or garlic sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Water Too Hot: It can kill the yeast. Use warm, not hot, water.
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Adding All the Flour at Once: Always add gradually to avoid a dry dough.
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Skipping Rest Time: The dough needs time to rise, even if minimal.
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Overfilling: Too much cheese can cause spillage during baking.
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Underbaking: Ensure golden tops and fully cooked centers.
Pairing Recommendations
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Drinks: Coffee, tea, sparkling water, or fresh juice
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Soups: Creamy tomato, pumpkin, or lentil soup
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Salads: Arugula with balsamic, cucumber-dill, or Caesar salad
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Dips: Garlic aioli, marinara, pesto, or yogurt sauce
Cooking Tips
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Preheat your oven fully before baking.
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Use a kitchen scale for accurate flour measurement if possible.
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Always let the dough rest—both after mixing and before baking.
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Grease your hands lightly with oil to handle sticky dough more easily.
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For crispy bottoms, bake on a preheated pizza stone.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Garlic Cheese Breadsticks
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No-Knead Dinner Rolls
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Brazilian Cheese Puffs (Pão de Queijo)
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Stuffed Pizza Buns
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Spinach and Cheese Muffins
Variations to Try
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Add Protein: Mix ham or shredded chicken into the filling.
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Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes.
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Sweet Version: Replace the filling with Nutella or fruit preserves.
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Herb Dough: Mix dried basil or oregano into the dough itself.
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Mini Bites: Divide dough into 12 instead of 6 for bite-sized snacks.
Ingredient Spotlight: Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds both texture and richness to these rolls. It melts beautifully, blends well with other cheeses, and has a subtle tanginess that balances the dough’s mild flavor. Choose full-fat for maximum creaminess or light versions for a healthier twist. You can also substitute with mascarpone, ricotta, or soft goat cheese.
Conclusion
These Cheese-Filled Savory Bread Rolls are more than just baked goods — they’re soft, cheesy pockets of comfort. They’re ideal for any time of day, simple enough for beginners, and versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Whether you’re baking a small batch for the family or a tray to impress guests, this easy recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I freeze these bread rolls after baking?
Yes! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight bag in the freezer. Reheat in a 180°C oven for 10–12 minutes.
2. What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Any good melting cheese like cheddar, gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack will work.
3. How long do they stay fresh?
They’re best the day they’re made but stay soft for up to 2 days stored at room temperature in a covered container.
4. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and filling.
5. What’s the best way to reheat them?
Reheat in the oven at 150–160°C (300–325°F) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispness and melt the cheese again.
6. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, though the rolls will be denser. Use 50% whole wheat and 50% all-purpose flour for best results.
7. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the basic version is vegetarian. Just ensure your cheeses are rennet-free if you’re strict.
8. Can I stuff them with vegetables?
Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or chopped mushrooms work well.
9. Do I need a stand mixer?
No, this dough is soft and easy to mix by hand — no mixer needed.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Just double all ingredients, but be mindful of your tray size and oven capacity.