Cheddar Bliss Buns

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most irresistible, fluffy, and flavorful dinner rolls that will undoubtedly steal the spotlight at any meal: our incredible Cheddar Cheese Rolls. Forget the days of bland, forgettable bread on your table. These aren’t just any rolls; they are a culinary experience, meticulously designed to be tall, incredibly soft, and bursting with savory goodness. Each bite delivers a delightful fusion of aromatic garlic and fragrant rosemary, perfectly complemented by the rich, tangy notes of cheddar cheese baked right into the dough. To elevate them even further, a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese creates a golden, crispy crust that adds an addictive texture.

Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday feast, planning a cozy family dinner, or simply looking to impress with your baking skills, these savory rolls are the perfect companion. They’re especially fantastic for festive gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, providing a much-needed burst of flavor and a comforting, homemade touch that everyone will adore. Get ready to transform your dinner table with these magnificent, cheesy masterpieces!

The journey to creating these extraordinary homemade cheddar cheese rolls began with a desire to move beyond the ordinary. For holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving, I always felt that a simple white roll, no matter how fresh, lacked that special something. I envisioned a roll that wasn’t merely a vehicle for butter but a dish in itself – brimming with character and robust flavors. These rolls are precisely that vision brought to life, offering a truly unique side dish experience.

One of the most defining and beloved features of this recipe is the exceptional parmesan cheese topping. As the rolls bake, the parmesan transforms into a golden, slightly caramelized crust that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. This savory topping not only adds an incredible layer of flavor but also provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft, airy interior of the rolls, making them truly unforgettable.

If you’re looking for more show-stopping recipes to complete your holiday menu, consider exploring other delightful options like Monster Cookie Cheesecake for an unexpected dessert, the comforting Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, or the wonderfully seasonal Apple Toffee Layered Cake. But for a savory side that promises to be a crowd-pleaser, these Cheddar Cheese Rolls are an absolute must-try!

Why You Will Absolutely Adore This Cheddar Cheese Roll Recipe

• Unbelievably Fluffy & Tall Dinner Rolls: Prepare to be amazed by the texture of these rolls. They bake up incredibly soft and airy, reaching impressive heights that make them look as good as they taste. Their light, cloud-like interior is a testament to perfect dough handling and rising techniques.
• Rich Cheddar Cheese Infusion: Unlike rolls with just a hint of cheese, these beauties are generously loaded with sharp or medium cheddar cheese mixed directly into the dough. This ensures a consistent, savory cheese flavor throughout every tender bite, creating a truly satisfying experience.
• Crispy Parmesan Crusted Tops: The generous layer of grated parmesan cheese baked on top is a game-changer. It forms a deliciously golden and slightly crunchy crust, adding a fantastic textural contrast and an extra layer of salty, umami-rich flavor that takes these rolls from great to extraordinary.
• The Ultimate Versatile Side Dish: These aren’t just any rolls; they are a perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. Whether you’re serving a holiday roast, a hearty stew, a comforting pasta dish, or a simple weeknight dinner, these savory, cheesy rolls will elevate the entire meal and impress everyone at the table.
• Aromatic Herb & Garlic Flavor: The dough is infused with fresh garlic and fragrant rosemary, giving these rolls a depth of flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. This aromatic combination ensures that each roll is bursting with savory notes, making them far more exciting than standard plain dinner rolls.

Essential Ingredient Notes for Perfect Cheese Rolls

Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to achieving the best results with your homemade cheddar cheese rolls. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Active Dry Yeast: This is the magic behind the rolls’ incredible rise and fluffy texture. While active dry yeast works wonderfully, active instant yeast can also be used for a slightly faster rise time. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active by testing it in warm water with a pinch of sugar first.
• Milk: Any type of milk can be used, but whole milk will lend a richer flavor and a more tender crumb to your rolls. It needs to be warmed to the correct temperature (around 110°F or 43°C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter contributes significantly to the rolls’ richness, tenderness, and flavor. It’s crucial that the melted butter is slightly cooled before being added to the dough mixture. If it’s too hot, it can kill the delicate yeast, preventing your rolls from rising properly.
• Fresh Garlic: I recommend using two large cloves of freshly minced garlic. Fresh garlic offers a pungent, aromatic flavor that truly elevates these savory rolls. While garlic powder is also used, the fresh garlic adds a layer of depth that can’t be replicated.
• Fresh Rosemary: For the most vibrant flavor, fresh rosemary is highly recommended. Chop it finely to ensure an even distribution throughout the dough. In a pinch, dried rosemary can be substituted, but use a slightly smaller amount (about two-thirds) as its flavor is more concentrated.
• Cheddar Cheese: A block of medium cheddar, freshly grated, is ideal for superior melting and flavor integration. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as smoothly and sometimes impart a slightly different texture. Feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: For the signature crispy crust, finely grated parmesan cheese is perfect. The Kraft grated parmesan found in most grocery stores works beautifully, providing that salty, tangy finish and irresistible texture on top of the rolls.
• Egg Wash: A simple egg wash (one egg beaten with a splash of water or milk) brushed over the rolls just before baking is essential. It contributes to that beautiful, shiny, golden-brown crust and helps the parmesan cheese adhere perfectly, creating a professional-looking finish.

Ingredient Substitutions to Customize Your Rolls

• Dairy-Free Option: For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be made dairy-free. Simply substitute your favorite dairy-free milk (such as almond or soy milk) and use a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative. Ensure any cheddar cheese used is also dairy-free.
• Alternative Cheeses: While cheddar is a star, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Mozzarella offers a milder, stringier melt, while Colby Jack can provide a lovely marbled appearance and a creamy texture. A blend of cheeses can also create a unique flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: If rosemary isn’t your preference, fresh thyme or chives would also be delicious additions. For a simpler flavor, you can omit the herbs entirely and let the garlic and cheese shine.

Step-By-Step Instructions for Irresistible Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of delicious cheddar cheese buns. This recipe is designed to be accessible whether you’re using a stand mixer with a dough hook or prefer to knead by hand.

STEP 1: Prepare Your Aromatic Ingredients. Begin by mincing the garlic cloves and finely chopping the fresh rosemary. Set these aromatic components aside. Next, grate your block of medium cheddar cheese and keep it ready. Proper preparation ensures a smooth baking process.

STEP 2: Activate the Yeast and Prepare Wet Components. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sprinkle the active dry yeast over its surface. Allow this mixture to sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes; this crucial step activates the yeast, indicated by a frothy appearance. While the yeast is activating, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave and set it aside to cool slightly. Simultaneously, warm the milk in the microwave until it reaches approximately 110°F (43°C), ensuring it’s warm enough for the yeast but not too hot.

STEP 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour. Sifting prevents lumps and helps create a lighter roll. To the sifted flour, add the white granulated sugar, salt, garlic powder, the minced fresh garlic, and the chopped fresh rosemary. Use a whisk to combine these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

STEP 4: Integrate Wet Ingredients and Knead the Dough. Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, the cooled melted butter, the warmed milk, and the grated cheddar cheese. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook: Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough begins to form, then increase the speed to medium-low and knead for a full 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand: Use a sturdy rubber spatula to mix until the dough becomes too stiff to stir. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 5 minutes, until it’s smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

STEP 5: First Rise for Optimal Flavor and Texture. Lightly grease a large mixing bowl with non-stick spray. Form your kneaded dough into a smooth ball and place it in the prepared bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. For a warm environment, preheat your oven to its lowest setting (around 200°F or 93°C) for a few minutes, then turn it off and prop the door open slightly. Place the covered bowl in the warm (but off) oven or another warm, draft-free spot for 1 hour, allowing the dough to double in size.

STEP 6: Shape the Rolls and Second Rise. Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. For perfectly uniform rolls, use a kitchen scale to weigh the total dough and divide by 12 (each piece should be approximately 94-95 grams). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pinching the bottom seams together and rolling it gently between your palm and the countertop until a round, taut ball forms. Arrange the dough balls in a 9×13-inch baking pan that has been generously sprayed with non-stick baking spray. Cover the pan again with a clean kitchen towel and let the cheddar dinner rolls rise in a warm, draft-free spot for another 35 minutes, or until noticeably puffy.

STEP 7: Bake to Golden Perfection. While the rolls are completing their second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water or milk to create an egg wash. Once the rolls have risen, gently brush the tops of each roll with a light, even layer of the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden sheen. Then, generously sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top of each roll – don’t be shy! Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C). Let cool slightly in the pan before serving warm.

Expert Baking Tips for Fluffy Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Achieving perfectly fluffy and flavorful cheddar cheese rolls is an art, but with these expert tips, you’ll master it in no time:

• Proper Kneading is Key: Whether you’re using a stand mixer with a dough hook or kneading by hand, ensure the dough is kneaded for a full 5 minutes. This dedicated kneading time is crucial for activating the gluten in the flour, which develops the dough’s structure and elasticity, resulting in those wonderfully soft and airy rolls.
• Ideal Dough Consistency: After kneading, your dough should be slightly tacky to the touch, but it should not be excessively sticky. If it’s too wet, add a tiny bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a few drops of milk or water. The right consistency ensures a tender crumb.
• Achieving Evenly Sized Rolls: For a professional look and consistent baking, use a kitchen scale to divide your dough. Weigh the entire mass of dough in grams, then divide that number by 12. This will give you the precise weight for each individual roll (typically around 94-95 grams, as noted in the original recipe). Evenly sized rolls bake uniformly, preventing some from being overdone while others are undercooked.
• The Warm Rise Environment: Yeast thrives in warm, draft-free conditions. For the first rise, a slightly warmed (then turned off) oven is an excellent environment. Alternatively, you can place the covered bowl near a sunny window or in a warm spot in your kitchen. Patience during rising is paramount for truly light rolls.
• Don’t Over-Flour: When shaping the rolls, use flour sparingly on your countertop. Too much flour can make the dough tough and dry. A lightly floured surface is all you need to prevent sticking while rolling the dough balls.
• Visual Cues for Doneness: Besides the baking time, pay attention to visual cues. The rolls are perfectly baked when they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color on top, especially where the parmesan cheese has crisped up. They should also sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• Mind the Temperature of Liquids: Always ensure your milk and water are warmed to approximately 105-115°F (40-46°C). Too cold, and the yeast won’t activate; too hot, and it will kill the yeast, leading to flat, dense rolls. A thermometer is your best friend here.

Making These Savory Rolls Ahead of Time

These cheddar cheese rolls are perfect for make-ahead convenience, especially when preparing for busy holidays or gatherings. You have two excellent options to get a head start:

1. Refrigerated First Rise (Overnight Method):
   After you’ve completed the initial kneading (Step 4), instead of letting the dough rise at room temperature, place the dough ball in a lightly greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight (for 8-12 hours). The cold temperature will slow down the yeast activity, allowing for a long, slow fermentation that often develops more flavor. The next day, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or until it warms up slightly and becomes easier to work with. Then proceed with dividing, shaping into 12 balls (Step 6), and allowing the rolls to complete their second rise before baking as usual. This method allows for freshly baked rolls right before serving.
2. Bake and Reheat (Partial or Full Bake Method):
   You can fully bake the rolls according to the recipe instructions. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack. To store, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.

   For same-day reheating: If baking a few hours ahead, let the rolls cool, cover them, and store at room temperature. Before serving, bring them to room temperature (if chilled), cover them loosely with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and soft again.

   For freezing baked rolls: Once completely cooled, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat from frozen, thaw them at room temperature for an hour, then follow the reheating instructions above, or bake directly from frozen (covered with foil) at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and soft.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Exciting Recipe Variations for Your Cheddar Cheese Rolls

While the classic cheddar and rosemary combination is absolutely divine, these rolls are incredibly versatile and lend themselves beautifully to customization. Don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Cheese Explorations: Beyond cheddar, consider incorporating other cheeses for different flavor profiles. Mozzarella will give a milder, stringier texture. Colby Jack or Monterey Jack offer a creamy, balanced taste. For an even bolder experience, try a blend of sharp cheddar and a touch of smoked gouda.
• Herb Customization: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, or you simply want to try something new, swap it out for other fresh herbs. Fresh thyme, finely chopped chives, or a blend of Italian herbs would all be fantastic additions. You could even add a pinch of dried oregano or basil for an Mediterranean twist.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or finely minced jalapeños (deseeded for less heat) into the dough along with the cheese. This adds a delightful warmth and zing to each roll.
• Onion & Garlic Boost: Amp up the savory notes by adding a tablespoon of dried minced onion or even a quarter cup of caramelized onions to the dough. A sprinkle of garlic granules on top with the parmesan can also intensify the garlic flavor.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: For a trendy and flavorful twist, sprinkle Everything Bagel seasoning over the egg wash instead of or in addition to the parmesan cheese. This adds a delightful mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and onion.

Special Tools to Elevate Your Baking Experience

Having the right tools can make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable, leading to consistently excellent results for your cheddar cheese rolls.

• Parchment Paper: Using premade sheets of parchment paper is a game-changer. They lie flat without curling, making it much easier to line your baking pans and ensure effortless cleanup. It prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• Baking Spray with Flour: A good quality nonstick spray that contains flour is invaluable for ensuring your rolls don’t stick to the pan and release beautifully after baking. It creates a perfect nonstick surface and gives a light coating of flour without the mess.
• 9×13-Inch Baking Pan: A sturdy 9×13-inch casserole pan is ideal for baking these rolls. Its generous size allows the rolls to rise properly and bake into a cohesive, pull-apart batch while still getting beautifully browned on top.
• Kitchen Scale: For truly uniform rolls that bake evenly, a digital kitchen scale is highly recommended. It allows you to divide the dough into perfectly equal portions by weight, leading to consistent results every time.
• Stand Mixer (Optional but Recommended): While these rolls can be made by hand, a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment significantly simplifies the kneading process, saving you time and effort while ensuring thorough gluten development.
• Pastry Brush: A good pastry brush is essential for applying the egg wash evenly over the rolls, ensuring a consistent golden-brown color and helping the parmesan cheese adhere beautifully.

Storing and Freezing Your Delicious Cheddar Cheese Rolls

To keep your cheddar cheese rolls fresh and delicious for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Whether you’ve just baked a batch or want to enjoy them later, here’s how to handle them:

Storing in the Refrigerator: Once your rolls have cooled completely to room temperature, place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Storing them uncovered or loosely covered can cause them to dry out and become stale quickly.

Freezing Baked Rolls

These rolls freeze beautifully after they are baked, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness whenever a craving strikes.

To Freeze: Allow the baked rolls to cool completely on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, wrap each individual roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a heavy-duty freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 30 days without significant loss of quality.

To Thaw and Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer. You can thaw them at room temperature for about 1 hour. For the best experience, these rolls are always best served warm. Once thawed, or even directly from frozen (if time is short, just allow a bit more reheating time), cover them loosely with aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are soft, warm, and fragrant throughout. This gentle reheating method helps to restore their soft texture without drying them out.

Other Roll Recipes To Try

If you’ve fallen in love with these savory cheddar cheese rolls, you might also enjoy exploring other delightful homemade roll recipes. From sweet cinnamon rolls to classic dinner rolls, the world of freshly baked bread is wonderfully vast and rewarding!

Make sure to leave a STAR REVIEW if you loved this recipe! Make sure to tag me on Instagram @stephaniesweettreats. To get more ideas follow me on Pinterest.

5 from 11 reviews

Cheddar Cheese Rolls

Stephanie Rutherford

These cheddar cheese rolls are the perfect dinner roll! They are fluffy and tall rolls filled with garlic, rosemary, and cheddar cheese. They are topped with parmesan cheese.

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Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Resting Time: 1 hr 35 mins

Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins

Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 tsp Active rise yeast, a whole packet.
• 1/2 cup Warm water, warmed to 110°F
• 1 cup Milk, warmed to 110°F
• 4 TBSP Unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 cup Medium cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 TBSP White granulated sugar
• 1/2 TBSP Salt
• 2 Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 TBSP Fresh rosemary, chopped and packed into 1 TBSP
• 1 Egg, for egg wash
• Grated parmesan, for topping the rolls

Instructions

1. First, mince the garlic cloves and chop the rosemary. Set aside. Grate the cheddar cheese and set aside.
   2 Garlic cloves, 1 TBSP Fresh rosemary, 1 cup Medium cheddar cheese
2. Place warm water in a bowl and pour the yeast on top. Let sit for 10 minutes for the yeast to activate. Melt the butter in the microwave and let it cool. Warm the milk in the microwave and let it sit ’til 110°F.
   2 1/4 tsp Active rise yeast, 1/2 cup Warm water, 1 cup Milk, 4 TBSP Unsalted butter
3. In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour. Add in sugar, salt, garlic powder, garlic cloves, and rosemary. Make a well in the middle of the dry ingredients.
   4 cups All-purpose flour, 2 TBSP White granulated sugar, 1/2 TBSP Salt, 2 Garlic cloves, 1 tsp Garlic powder, 1 TBSP Fresh rosemary
4. Pour in water/yeast, milk, cooled butter, and cheddar cheese. For a stand mixer with a dough hook: Mix on low until a dough is forming, then knead for 5 minutes. By hand: Use a rubber spatula to mix the dough until it is hard to do. Switch to your hand to mix the dough together. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes.
   2 1/4 tsp Active rise yeast, 1/2 cup Warm water, 1 cup Milk, 4 TBSP Unsalted butter, 1 cup Medium cheddar cheese
5. Preheat oven to 200°F. Spray a large mixing bowl with non-stick spray. Form the dough into a ball and place into the mixing bowl. Cover with a towel and place in the oven. Turn off the oven and prop open the door. Let rise for 1 hour.
6. The dough will rise a lot. Punch the dough down. Separate the dough into 12 balls. Pinch the bottoms into the middle. Then roll the dough by placing it on the counter, cup your hand over the dough ball and roll until smooth.
7. Place rolls in a 9X13 pan sprayed with baking non-stick spray. Cover with a towel and let rise at room temperature for 35 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F. Beat the egg in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush and brush the rolls with a light layer. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top of each roll. Sprinkle as much as you want.
   1 Egg, Grated parmesan
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The rolls are done baking when golden in color on top. Let cool slightly and serve.

Notes

Flour: Make sure flour is spooned and leveled or use a kitchen scale. Compacted flour can dry out the rolls.

See above blog post for storing, freezing, and make ahead instructions.

Calories: 212kcal, Carbohydrates: 35g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 26mg, Sodium: 306mg, Potassium: 84mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 174IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 34mg, Iron: 2mg

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