The Fluffiest Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls Recipe Ever

Warm, golden bread rolls stuffed with savory ham and melty cheese elevate comfort food to a delightful new level.

These delectable rolls combine soft, pillowy dough with rich, salty ham and gooey cheese in every bite.

The aroma of freshly baked bread will fill your kitchen with irresistible warmth.

Each roll promises a perfect balance of textures and flavors that dance on your palate.

Simple ingredients come together to create a crowd-pleasing treat that works for breakfast, lunch, or a satisfying snack.

You’ll love how easy these rolls are to prepare and how quickly they disappear from the plate.

Prepare to be the hero of your next meal with these mouthwatering ham and cheese bread rolls.

Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls: Savory, Soft, and Perfect for Sharing

• Dive into a delightful homemade bread experience that wraps warm, cheesy goodness into each soft, pillowy bite.
• Swap ham for different meats or add herbs and spices to create your unique flavor profile, making these rolls perfect for personalized meals.
• Kids and adults alike will love these portable, handheld rolls packed with savory ham and melted cheese, ideal for lunch boxes or quick snacks.
• Beginner bakers can confidently tackle this recipe with simple steps and basic ingredients, ensuring delicious results every single time.

All the Fixings for Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls

• Bread Flour: The primary base for creating a soft and sturdy dough.
• Ham: Adds savory flavor and protein to the bread rolls.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, tangy taste and creamy texture.

• Warm Milk, Sugar, Yeast: Essential for activating the yeast and creating a light, fluffy bread texture.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness to the dough.

• Butter, Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and helps create a tender bread texture.
• Melted Butter: Used for brushing the rolls to create a golden, glossy finish.

Bread Roll Baking Tools and Must-Haves

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Powerful tool for mixing dough ingredients smoothly and quickly.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Spacious container for combining dry and wet ingredients comfortably.
• Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out dough into a perfect rectangle.
• Sharp Knife or Bench Scraper: Perfect for cutting rolls into even slices.
• Baking Sheet: Sturdy surface for baking and presenting rolls.
• Pastry Brush: Great for spreading melted butter over rolls.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise tools for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Kitchen Towel or Damp Cloth: Helps cover dough during rising stages.

Step-by-Step to Homemade Ham and Cheese Rolls

Step 1: Activate The Yeast

Grab a cozy small bowl and pour in warm milk.

Sprinkle sugar and yeast into the milk.

Let the mixture sit quietly for 5-10 minutes until it becomes wonderfully foamy and bubbly.

Step 2: Create The Dough Base

In a roomy mixing bowl, combine bread flour and salt.

• Softened butter
• Egg
• Activated yeast mixture

Blend everything together until a soft, cohesive dough forms.

Step 3: Knead With Love

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Knead the dough with your hands, pushing and folding for 5-7 minutes.

You want the dough to become smooth, stretchy, and silky.

Step 4: First Resting Period

Place the dough in a greased bowl.

Cover with a damp, soft cloth.

Let it rest in a warm, cozy spot for about 1 hour until the dough doubles in size.

Step 5: Prepare The Filling

Gently punch down the risen dough.

Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

• Diced ham
• Shredded cheddar cheese

Step 6: Roll And Slice

Tightly roll the dough from the long side, creating a neat log.

Pinch the seam to seal completely.

Slice the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 7: Second Resting Period

Arrange the rolls cut-side down on a greased baking sheet.

Space them slightly apart.

Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake To Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).

Brush the rolls with melted butter.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Pro Bread Roll Tips for the Softest Texture

• Ensure milk is warm (not hot) between 100-110°F to activate yeast without killing it, creating a soft, fluffy texture.
• Develop gluten by kneading consistently, which helps rolls maintain a light, airy structure and prevents dense bread.
• Grate cheese finely and spread evenly to guarantee every bite has a delicious ham and cheese flavor.
• Cover rolls with a damp cloth during rising to maintain moisture and prevent a tough, dry crust.
• Use melted butter before baking to create a beautiful golden-brown exterior with a rich, glossy finish.

Creative Ham and Cheese Roll Flavors

• Gluten-Free Variation: Replace bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum for better texture and binding.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap ham with roasted bell peppers, spinach, or caramelized onions for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use almond flour or cauliflower dough as a base and fill with lean protein and low-fat cheese for a healthier adaptation.
• Spicy Herb Version: Incorporate chopped jalapeños, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and use pepper jack cheese to add extra flavor and kick.

Serving Ideas for Warm, Gooey Bread Rolls

• Breakfast Companion: Pair these savory rolls with a fresh green salad or crisp fruit for a balanced morning meal.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Create an impressive spread by arranging rolls on a rustic wooden board with additional cheese and herb garnishes.
• Picnic Perfect: Pack these rolls in a portable container for an easy outdoor lunch that travels well and tastes delicious at room temperature.
• Dipping Delights: Serve alongside marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for extra flavor adventure and fun snacking options.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat Bread Rolls

• Store leftover ham and cheese bread rolls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying.
• Place rolls in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Wrap rolls in aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 2 minutes to crisp the exterior.
• Heat individual rolls for 20-30 seconds. For best texture, place a damp paper towel over the roll to prevent dryness and maintain softness.

FAQs

• Why use warm milk for the yeast mixture?

Warm milk activates the yeast, helping it bloom and create a soft, fluffy texture in the bread rolls. The ideal temperature is around 110°F, which encourages yeast growth without killing it.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other melting cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or provolone. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor to the ham and cheese bread rolls.

• How do I know when the dough has risen properly?

The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels puffy when gently pressed. If it springs back slowly after being poked, it has risen correctly and is ready for the next step.

Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls Recipe

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4.7 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Savory ham and cheese bread rolls blend French bakery charm with home kitchen ease. Crisp exteriors and melted interior layers deliver delightful comfort perfect for you to enjoy alongside soups or salads.

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Ingredients

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Primary Ingredients:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Leavening and Binding Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Seasoning and Fat Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• Additional melted butter for brushing

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Instructions

1. Activate the yeast by whisking warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small container. Allow the mixture to become frothy and bubbly for 5-10 minutes.
2. Create the dough base by combining bread flour and salt in a large bowl. Incorporate softened butter, egg, and the activated yeast mixture until a cohesive dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead vigorously for 5-7 minutes, developing a smooth and stretchy texture.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, drape with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm environment for approximately 1 hour until it doubles in volume.
5. Deflate the dough and roll it into a thin rectangular shape. Distribute diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the surface.
6. Tightly roll the dough from the long edge, ensuring a secure seal by pinching the seam. Slice the rolled dough into 12 uniform portions.
7. Arrange the rolls cut-side down on a greased baking sheet, maintaining space between each piece. Cover with a damp cloth and allow a second rise for 30 minutes.
8. Heat the oven to 375F (190C). Gently brush the rolls with melted butter. Bake for 15-20 minutes until achieving a golden-brown color and crisp exterior.

Notes

• Use instant yeast for quicker proofing and more reliable rising, ensuring soft and fluffy bread rolls every time.
• Allow ingredients like milk, butter, and egg to reach room temperature before mixing to help them blend smoothly and create a more consistent dough texture.
• For gluten-free variation, substitute bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add xanthan gum to improve dough elasticity and structure.
• Experiment with different cheese and ham combinations like Swiss cheese with smoked ham or pepper jack with turkey ham to create unique flavor profiles and keep the recipe exciting.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Appetizer, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 175
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg