Name: Soft and Fluffy Cheese Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 250 ml (1 cup) warm whole milk; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1 tbsp honey; 7 g (2 tsp) fast-acting yeast (1 sachet); 2 eggs, beaten; 500–550 g (about 4 cups) strong flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 190 g (1 1/4 cups) jar tomato and grilled pepper sauce; 300 g (2 1/2 cups) grated cheddar cheese; 3 sprigs thyme, leaves picked

These soft and fluffy cheese rolls are one of my favorite savory bakes. They’re pillowy, golden, and filled with a gooey cheese and tomato-pepper sauce that makes them irresistible. I love how they’re perfect for snacking, serving as a side dish, or even enjoying as a light meal on their own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the comfort of freshly baked bread with the richness of melted cheddar and herby tomato sauce. The rolls are soft and airy, yet packed with flavor. I also like that they’re versatile I can serve them warm out of the oven at a family dinner or pack them up for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

250 ml (1 cup) whole milk, warm (see notes)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon honey
7 g (2 tablespoon) fast-acting yeast, 1 sachet if using packets
2 eggs, beaten
500-550 g (2 cups) strong flour
½ teaspoon salt
190 g (1 ¼ cups) jar tomato and grilled pepper sauce, see notes
300 g (2 ½ cups) grated cheddar
3 sprigs thyme, leaves picked

Directions

I warm the milk slightly, making sure it’s not too hot, then mix it with the melted butter, honey, and yeast. I let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
I beat in the eggs, then gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
I knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
I place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Once risen, I punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle.
I spread the tomato and grilled pepper sauce evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with most of the cheddar and thyme leaves.
I roll the dough up tightly into a log and slice it into even rolls.
I arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
I bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling with cheese.
I let them cool slightly before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 rolls. It takes 20 minutes to prepare, 1 ½ hours for rising, and 25 minutes to bake, so I usually have them ready in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Variations

I like swapping the cheddar for mozzarella or gouda for a different cheesy flavor. Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms, olives, or spinach to the filling for extra richness. For a spicy twist, I mix in chili flakes or jalapeños. A sprinkle of parmesan on top also gives a deliciously crisp finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. They also freeze well for up to 1 month I just reheat from frozen until hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of fast-acting yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works the same way in this recipe.

Do I need to use strong flour?

Yes, strong flour helps give the rolls structure and fluffiness, but all-purpose flour can work if that’s what I have.

Can I make these without tomato sauce?

Yes, I sometimes skip the sauce and just make cheesy rolls, or use pesto instead.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

I press it lightly with my finger if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes, I use plant-based milk, vegan butter, vegan cheese, and an egg substitute.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Yes, I let it rise in the fridge overnight, then shape and bake the next day.

What other herbs can I use?

I like oregano, basil, or rosemary in place of thyme.

Can I use different cheeses together?

Yes, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives both flavor and stretchiness.

Do I need to grease the baking dish?

Yes, greasing prevents the rolls from sticking and helps them brown evenly.

Can I serve these rolls cold?

Yes, but I think they taste best warm with the cheese melted.

Conclusion

These soft and fluffy cheese rolls are one of my favorite savory baking recipes. I love how they combine rich cheesy flavor with the comfort of freshly baked bread. Perfect for sharing, snacking, or enjoying alongside a meal, they’re a delicious treat that always disappears quickly.