Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup milk (warm, about 110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 ½ cups sharp Cheddar cheese (grated)
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (optional, e.g., chives or parsley)

For Topping (optional):

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Additional grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the melted butter, the activated yeast mixture, and the egg.
• Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

1. First Rise:

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

1. Incorporate Cheese:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
• Sprinkle the grated Cheddar cheese (and herbs, if using) evenly over the dough.

1. Shape the Rolls:

• Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
• Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to rise.

1. Second Rise:

• Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Bake the Rolls:

• Once the rolls have risen, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

1. Serve:

• Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Tips:

• You can experiment with different cheeses or add spices and herbs to customize the flavor.
• These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days or frozen for longer storage.

Enjoy your homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls!