Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy bread roll only to find a gooey, melted center of mozzarella cheese. These Mozzarella Bread Rolls are a perfect blend of soft bread, flavorful garlic, and rich cheese, making them an irresistible treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re serving them as an accompaniment to dinner, enjoying them as a snack, or sharing them at a gathering, these rolls are sure to impress. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they combine simple ingredients to create a delightful bread that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 70 ml warm water
- 70 ml warm milk
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 320g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Garlic Butter Filling:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 60g butter, softened
- Salt to taste
- Additional Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded or cut into small cubes
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 teaspoon milk (for egg wash)
- Poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, and honey until well combined.
- Add the yeast mixture to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
- Mixing the Dough:
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a small disc and place a small cube or a teaspoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center.
- Enclose the cheese by pinching the dough around it and rolling it into a smooth ball.
- Second Rise:
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash and sprinkle with poppy seeds if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
- Finish with Garlic Butter:
- Immediately after removing the rolls from the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.
- Serve:
- Serve the mozzarella bread rolls warm. They are perfect on their own or as an accompaniment to soups and salads.
Cooking Tips
- Warm Ingredients: Ensure the water and milk are warm but not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast.
- Proper Kneading: Kneading the dough thoroughly is essential for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their structure and fluffy texture.
- Cheese Filling: You can experiment with different cheeses or add herbs and spices to the filling for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to regain their softness.
Nutritional Benefits
These Mozzarella Bread Rolls offer a balanced mix of macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: Provided by the flour, they offer a quick source of energy.
- Protein: The mozzarella cheese adds a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Fats: The butter and cheese provide healthy fats, which are crucial for various bodily functions.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs and parsley contribute essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Despite the rising times, the hands-on preparation is straightforward and simple.
- Versatile: These rolls can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes or on their own.
- Delicious: The combination of soft bread, melted mozzarella, and flavorful garlic butter is irresistible.
- Homemade Comfort: There’s nothing quite like the taste and aroma of freshly baked bread rolls.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Nut-Free: Safe for individuals with nut allergies.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it balances the flavors and textures of the ingredients perfectly. The dough is enriched with egg and butter, making it soft and tender. The mozzarella cheese adds a delicious, gooey center, while the garlic butter provides a burst of flavor that complements the bread beautifully. The double rise ensures the rolls are light and fluffy, while the egg wash gives them a beautiful golden finish. By following the steps carefully, you’ll achieve a perfect balance of taste and texture every time.
Conclusion
These Simple and Delicious Mozzarella Bread Rolls are a testament to the magic of homemade baking. With their soft, fluffy texture, gooey mozzarella center, and rich garlic butter topping, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven, serving them with a meal, or sharing them with friends and family, these rolls are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is a must-try for any bread lover. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible Mozzarella Bread Rolls!