Fluffy, soft rolls with a flavorful herb-infused swirl and a gooey melted cheddar center. These rolls are a perfect side dish, great for any dinner, or even as a savory snack. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated later, they’re sure to impress.
Author: Jamie
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 rolls
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup melted butter (for filling)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, honey, yeast, and salt. Stir to mix. Add the warm water, softened butter, and olive oil. Mix until the dough starts to come together, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. - First Rise:
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. - Roll Out the Dough:
Once risen, punch the dough down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. - Make the Herb Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, chopped basil, and thyme. Brush this herb-infused butter generously over the dough, spreading it all the way to the edges. - Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the herb buttered dough. - Form the Rolls:
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces, each about 1 inch thick. - Second Rise:
Arrange the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover with a clean towel and allow the rolls to rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, until puffy. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Bake:
Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and the cheese is bubbling through the swirls. - Optional – Add Extra Herb Butter:
For an extra flavor boost, you can brush the tops of the rolls with more melted herb butter right after baking. - Serve:
Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy them as a side with your favorite soup or salad, or just enjoy them by themselves.
Notes:
- Freezing:
After baking, let the rolls cool completely. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top freezer bag. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and bake at 300°F for 8-10 minutes. - Flavor Variations:
- Cheese Lovers: For an even cheesier experience, try adding a mixture of mozzarella, gouda, and cheddar.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter for a bit of heat.
- Mediterranean Style: Swap the basil and thyme for fresh oregano and add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
Why These Herb and Cheddar Swirl Rolls Are a Must-Try:
These rolls offer a beautiful balance of flavors with the richness of melted cheddar cheese, the aromatic herbs, and the soft, pillowy texture of the dough. Each bite is full of savory goodness, making these rolls a standout side dish at any meal.
Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty soup or enjoying them on their own, these rolls are a comforting, delicious addition to your table. Plus, they freeze well, making them perfect for meal prepping or as a quick addition to any dinner.
Crafting the Perfect Herb and Cheddar Swirl Roll Dough:
For the best results, use an enriched dough that combines the fluffiness of bread with a subtle sweetness. The warm water, honey, and butter in the dough provide just the right amount of softness and elasticity. Make sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which is key to getting those perfectly swirled rolls.
Swirling in the Flavor:
The herb butter is what makes these rolls stand out. The combination of fresh herbs like basil and thyme creates a fragrant base, while the melted butter ensures every bite is rich and flavorful. Adding a generous amount of cheese between the layers ensures that each roll will have a gooey, cheesy surprise in every swirl.
Serving and Storing:
Herb and Cheddar Swirl Rolls are a crowd-pleaser whether fresh from the oven or reheated. The second rise in the fridge overnight is a great time-saver, especially when prepping for a big meal or dinner party. And don’t worry—they freeze beautifully and taste just as fresh when reheated.
FAQs
How do I make Herb and Cheddar Swirl Rolls from scratch?
Start with a simple enriched dough—flour, yeast, honey, butter, and warm water. Once the dough has risen, roll it out, brush it with herb butter, sprinkle with cheese, roll it up, slice, and let it rise again. Then bake until golden!
Can I add other cheese varieties?
Absolutely! You can add a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a bit of cream cheese for a creamier texture.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the rolls through the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. Let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, bake the rolls, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic and store them in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve!
Conclusion:
Herb and Cheddar Swirl Rolls are the perfect way to add a savory, cheesy touch to any meal. With their soft, fluffy texture and irresistible flavor, they are guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them fresh or preparing them ahead of time, these rolls will always deliver that comforting, homemade taste we all crave.
