Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cheese rolls filling your kitchen. These homemade cheddar cheese rolls are soft, fluffy, and stuffed with melting pockets of sharp cheddar. They are perfect for breakfast, tea-time snacks, lunchbox treats, or serving alongside soups, pasta, or holiday dinners.The dough is beginner-friendly, easy to knead, and rises beautifully. With a buttery golden top and a rich cheesy interior, these rolls are so good that one batch is never enough!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Bake Time: 18–22 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour

2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast

2 tbsp sugar

1 tsp salt

3 tbsp butter, softened

1 cup warm milk (not hot—about 40–43°C)

1 egg (optional but adds softness; can be skipped)

For the Cheddar Filling

1 ½ to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp)

1 tbsp butter (to toss with the cheese, optional)

For Brushing

2 tbsp melted butter

½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

Pinch of dried parsley or oregano (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.

Add softened butter, egg, and warm milk.

Mix and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Dough should be soft but not sticky.

If too dry, add 1–2 tbsp more milk.

If too sticky, sprinkle a little flour.

First Rise (Proofing)

Lightly grease the bowl with oil.

Place the dough inside and cover with a clean towel.

Let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Keep in a warm place.

Shape the Cheese Rolls

Punch down the risen dough to remove air.

Divide into 12 equal pieces.

Flatten each piece slightly and add 1–2 tbsp cheddar cheese in the center.

Pull the dough edges together and pinch tight to seal.

Shape into smooth balls and place on a greased or lined baking tray.

Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Brush the tops with melted butter (mixed with garlic powder or herbs if you like).

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Final Touch

Brush with more butter immediately after baking.

Allow to cool slightly before serving—they’re best warm and fresh!

Tips for Perfect Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.

Add green onions inside the filling for extra taste.

For extra-cheesy rolls, sprinkle cheddar on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Keep leftovers in an airtight container and warm them for 10 seconds in the microwave.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls are warm, comforting, and wonderfully cheesy—everything a perfect homemade bread should be. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or part of a meal, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Once you bake them, the smell alone will bring everyone to the table!