Fluffy Cheese-Filled Bread Rolls

Fluffy Cheese-Filled Bread Rolls are a timeless classic that combines the comforting essence of homemade bread with a delightful cheesy surprise. Perfectly golden on the outside, these rolls are soft, pillowy, and oozing with melted cheese on the inside. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast treat, a savory snack, or a side dish to complement soups and stews, these rolls promise to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Bread-making has been a cherished tradition across cultures for centuries, symbolizing warmth, nourishment, and togetherness. This recipe takes that tradition up a notch by introducing a creamy, savory cheese filling that elevates the flavor and texture of the rolls. The decorative touch of olives and the golden shine from the egg wash make these rolls as visually appealing as they are delicious.

With a balance of fluffy dough, rich filling, and a touch of Mediterranean flair, Fluffy Cheese-Filled Bread Rolls are more than just bread—they are an experience that brings comfort and joy to your table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 250 ml warm water: Activates the yeast and provides moisture.
  • 250 ml warm milk: Adds creaminess for a soft texture.
  • 10 g dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become airy.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons sugar: Balances the flavor and activates the yeast.
  • 200 ml vegetable oil: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
  • 700 g wheat flour: Provides structure and bulk to the dough.
  • 100 g wheat flour: For dusting or adjusting the dough texture if needed.

For the Filling:

  • 100 g grated cheese: Melts into a creamy center, adding a rich, savory surprise to each roll.

For Decoration:

  • 1 cracked egg: Brushed on top for a shiny, golden finish.
  • Olives: Adds a Mediterranean touch and enhances presentation.

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

  1. Activate the yeast:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is activated.
  2. Combine wet ingredients:
    • Add the vegetable oil to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
  3. Incorporate dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the 700 g of wheat flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough:
    • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add the extra 100 g of flour, little by little, until the desired consistency is reached.
  5. Let the dough rise:
    • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

Shaping the Rolls

  1. Prepare the filling:
    • Grate the cheese and set it aside.
  2. Divide the dough:
    • Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into equal portions (about 16 pieces for medium-sized rolls).
  3. Stuff the rolls:
    • Flatten each dough piece into a small circle. Place a spoonful of grated cheese in the center, then fold and seal the edges tightly to form a ball.
  4. Decorate the rolls:
    • Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the cracked egg and place an olive slice on each roll for decoration.

Baking the Rolls

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Bake:
    • Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
  3. Cool and serve:
    • Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Rising Time:

1–1.5 hours

Baking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

Approximately 2 hours

Servings:

16 rolls

Calories (per roll):

Approximately 180 kcal

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Fluffy Cheese-Filled Bread Rolls hold a special place in kitchens worldwide due to their comforting flavors, versatility, and ease of preparation. The combination of a soft, fluffy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center makes them irresistible to people of all ages.

Bread has been a cornerstone of culinary traditions for centuries, symbolizing sustenance and community. This recipe builds on that foundation, introducing cheese for added richness and olives for a touch of sophistication. The use of basic pantry ingredients ensures this recipe can be recreated anywhere, anytime.

The timeless appeal of these rolls lies in their adaptability—they can be enjoyed plain, paired with soups, or transformed into sandwich bases. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a family favorite that never goes out of style.

Nutrition Facts (Per Roll)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Calcium: 8% of the daily recommended intake
  • Iron: 6% of the daily recommended intake

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works just as well. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

2. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. After shaping the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer them to a freezer bag. Thaw and bake as needed.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Mozzarella, cheddar, feta, or even a mix of cheeses work wonderfully.

4. Can I add herbs to the dough?
Definitely. Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the dough for added flavor.

5. Are these rolls suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.

Tips for Making Perfect Fluffy Cheese-Filled Bread Rolls

  • Warm liquids are key: Ensure the water and milk are warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Knead thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving the rolls their soft and fluffy texture.
  • Seal tightly: When stuffing the rolls, ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking during baking.
  • Don’t skip the egg wash: It gives the rolls their beautiful golden sheen.
  • Let them cool slightly: Fresh out of the oven, the cheese can be extremely hot—let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to refresh their texture.
  • Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm them up before serving.
  • Freezing: Freeze the baked rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Fluffy Cheese-Filled Bread Rolls are a testament to the joy of homemade baking. With their soft, airy texture, cheesy centers, and beautifully golden tops, they bring warmth and comfort to any table. Whether shared with loved ones, served at gatherings, or enjoyed as a personal treat, these rolls capture the essence of timeless recipes: simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable.

Their versatility ensures they can suit any occasion—pair them with hearty soups for a cozy dinner, pack them as a snack for road trips, or serve them as an appetizer at festive events. Each roll is a reminder of how the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the meditative process of baking these delightful treats. Once you bite into their soft, cheesy goodness, you’ll understand why Fluffy Cheese-Filled Bread Rolls are a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.