Small Batch Cheesy Bread Rolls with Honey Butter Recipe

 

There is something irresistibly comforting about a warm, cheesy bread roll fresh from the oven, especially when it’s brushed with a sweet, luscious honey butter glaze. This Small Batch Cheesy Bread Rolls with Honey Butter Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone craving soft, fluffy bread packed with melty cheeses and a hint of garlic, all perfectly balanced by the delicate sweetness of honey butter. It’s a cozy, flavorful treat that’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends or family on any day that calls for a little extra yum.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is your first joyful step toward these delightful rolls. Each component here is simple, but together they create that unbeatable cheesy, tender texture and a golden crust kissed with honey butter sweetness.

• 160g milk (2/3 cup), warm: The warmth helps activate the yeast, giving the bread its lovely rise.
• 40g sugar (3 tbsp): Adds just enough sweetness to balance the savory flavors and feed the yeast.
• 2 teaspoons yeast: The essential leavening agent that makes your rolls light and fluffy.
• 325g all-purpose flour (2 1/2 cup): The backbone of the dough, providing structure and chew.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor and controls yeast activity for perfect dough.
• 60g unsalted butter, softened (1/4 cup): Brings richness and keeps the rolls tender inside.
• 1 egg: Adds moisture and helps bind ingredients for a beautiful crumb.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (28g): For the luscious cheese sauce base.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (16g): Thickens the cheese sauce to a creamy perfection.
• 1 cup milk (240g): Smooths out the cheese sauce and adds creaminess.
• 1 tsp minced or chopped garlic: Gives a subtle savory kick that complements the cheeses.
• 1/2 tsp each salt, pepper, and chili flakes: Adds seasoning with a gentle heat to balance the cheese sauce.
• 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese + more to sprinkle (optional): For that signature melt and stretch.
• 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, tangy depth to the mix.
• 1/3 cup shredded gouda cheese: Adds a smoky, creamy layer of flavor.
• 2 tbsp cream cheese (30g): Lends extra creaminess to the sauce and richness to the rolls.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (28g): Melted and mixed with honey to brush on top, creating a golden finish.
• 2 tbsp honey (40g): The sweet star of the honey butter that makes these rolls simply addictive.

How to Make Small Batch Cheesy Bread Rolls with Honey Butter Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by combining the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in the bowl of your stand mixer. Let it sit briefly while the yeast wakes up and bubbles slightly. Then add the flour, salt, softened butter, and egg. Use the dough hook attachment to knead the mixture for 7 to 10 minutes; the dough will be sticky at first but will transform into a smooth, elastic ball that pulls away from the bowl’s edge. This kneading step develops that perfect chewy texture we all love in bread.

Step 2: First Rise

Transfer your dough to an oiled bowl, cover it with cling wrap, and place it somewhere warm and humid. This cozy environment encourages the dough to double in size over 60 to 90 minutes. Watching your dough puff up is almost magical and sets the stage for fluffy rolls.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

While the dough rises, melt butter in a nonstick saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute to take away the raw taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook until the mixture thickens and smooths out. Reduce heat to low and incorporate the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, and cream cheese until silky and perfectly blended. This sauce should be thick but still spreadable, becoming even richer as it cools.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Grease an eighth-sheet pan with butter and line it with parchment to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll your risen dough into a 12 by 14-inch rectangle. Spread the cheese sauce evenly across the dough with an offset spatula, then optionally sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for that irresistible cheese pull. Cut the rectangle into six 2-inch-wide strips along the length. Roll each strip tightly and neatly to form six individual rolls, then place them snugly in your prepared pan.

Step 5: Second Rise and Bake

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and soft. About 20 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20 to 22 minutes until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops generously with melted butter combined with honey. This final touch creates a shiny, sweet glaze that sets these rolls apart.

How to Serve Small Batch Cheesy Bread Rolls with Honey Butter Recipe

Garnishes

For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the warm rolls. The bright green flecks add a fresh aroma and a lovely pop of color that makes these already stunning rolls feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These cheesy rolls are versatile—serve them alongside hearty soups like tomato bisque or creamy potato leek to soak up every bit of flavor. They also pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, turning your meal into a comforting feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, place the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a cozy tea towel to keep them warm inviting everyone to grab their own. Alternatively, slice them horizontally and pile with thinly sliced smoked turkey or ham for fancy sliders that are nothing short of addictive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh on your countertop for up to two days. To enjoy later, simply warm them gently to revive that fresh-baked softness.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these rolls at a later date, freeze the assembled but unbaked rolls in your baking pan wrapped well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, let them rise again briefly, then bake as directed. This method keeps all the cheesy goodness intact!

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, place the rolls in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, loosely covered with foil to prevent over-browning. You can also microwave for a shorter burst but the oven will help restore the crust’s delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda create a fantastic harmony, feel free to experiment with your favorites like fontina, provolone, or Monterey Jack to suit your taste.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

No worries! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It just takes a bit more elbow grease—about 10 to 15 minutes of kneading on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The steps are straightforward, and the results are rewarding. The key is to give the dough time to rise and not rush through the kneading and resting phases.

Can I adjust the honey butter glaze?

Of course! If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey or swap it out entirely for garlic butter for a savory twist. It’s all about what makes your taste buds sing.

How long will the rolls stay fresh?

Freshly baked, these rolls are best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal softness and flavor. Beyond that, freezing is your friend to preserve their deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful treat that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen, this Small Batch Cheesy Bread Rolls with Honey Butter Recipe is an absolute must-try. Its soft, cheesy richness paired with a sweet buttery glaze makes every bite a happy moment. Gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and get ready to share these delightful rolls with people you love. I promise, once you try them, they’ll be on your regular rotation!

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