Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs (yolks reserved for topping)
• 1 packet dry yeast (about 7 grams or 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

• Cheddar cheese, shredded (amount as desired)
• Sausage, sliced (amount as desired)
• Optional: Tomatoes, peppers, olives, or other favorite toppings
• Egg yolks (from the 2 eggs used in the dough)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
   • Sprinkle the dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil.
   • Add 2 eggs to the mixture, beating them well.
2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
   • Add the frothy yeast mixture to the bowl.
   • Gradually add 6 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing continuously until the dough begins to come together.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
   • Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Divide and Shape:
   • Punch down the dough to release air bubbles.
   • Divide the dough into equal portions, shaping each into a round roll or ball.
   • Place the rolls onto a greased baking sheet or lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Prepare the Egg Wash:
   • Beat the reserved egg yolks in a small bowl.
2. Apply the Egg Wash:
   • Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg yolks for a golden finish.
3. Add Toppings:
   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each roll.
   • Add slices of sausage and any optional toppings like tomatoes, peppers, or olives.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake the Rolls:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
   • The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the rolls should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Cool the Rolls:
   • Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
2. Serve:
   • Enjoy the rolls warm, or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or as an accompaniment to soups, salads, or any meal.

Tips for Success

• Yeast Activation: Ensure your water is warm but not hot. Too hot water can kill the yeast, while too cold water won’t activate it properly.
• Kneading: Proper kneading is crucial for developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture.
• Rising: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment to ensure it doubles in size effectively.
• Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings according to your preferences. Try adding herbs or different types of cheese for variation.

Storage Tips

• Short-Term: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Long-Term: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. They can be reheated from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Possible Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   • Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe slightly.
2. Can I use a different type of oil?
   • Yes, you can use olive oil or melted coconut oil as alternatives to vegetable oil.
3. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and freeze them after baking. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

Conclusion

This homemade bread roll recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying treat. With a golden, cheesy topping and a soft, fluffy interior, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or a special event, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the baking process and the delightful aroma of fresh bread wafting through your home!