Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls are a savory treat perfect for any time of day. Start by activating the yeast with warm milk and sugar, then combine with flour, butter, and egg to form a dough. Knead until smooth and let it rise until doubled in size. Roll out the dough, layer with diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese, and roll up tightly. Slice into 12 pieces, let rise again, and bake until golden brown. These rolls are delicious served warm, showcasing the melty cheese and savory ham. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, they are sure to be a hit.

Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls
Ham and cheese bread rolls | Myhomemaderecipe.com

Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls are a delightful savory treat, combining the rich flavors of ham and cheddar cheese in a soft, fluffy roll. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these rolls are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

INGREDIENTS

  • Warm Milk: 1 cup to activate the yeast and create a tender dough.
  • Sugar: 2 tablespoons to feed the yeast and add a touch of sweetness.
  • Active Dry Yeast: 2 teaspoons to leaven the dough and make it rise.
  • Bread Flour: 3 cups for a strong, chewy structure.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance flavor.
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons, softened, to add richness and moisture to the dough.
  • Egg: 1 large egg for structure and tenderness.
  • Cooked Ham: 1 cup, diced, for a savory filling.
  • Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded, for a melty, cheesy filling.
  • Melted Butter: Additional melted butter for brushing the rolls to give a golden crust.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast and ensures your dough will rise properly.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Mix until it forms a dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it's too dry, add a bit more milk.
Step 3:
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, giving the rolls their structure and chewiness.
Step 4:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This first rise is crucial for a light and airy texture.
Step 5:
Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dough.
Step 6:
Starting from the long side, roll up the dough tightly and pinch the seam to seal. Cut the rolled dough into 12 slices and place them cut-side down on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between each roll for expansion.
Step 7:
Cover with a damp cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise ensures the rolls will be light and fluffy.
Step 8:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with melted butter to help them bake to a beautiful golden brown. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9:
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls warm for the best taste and texture.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve the rolls warm, straight from the oven, to enjoy the melty cheese and savory ham at their best.
  • Pair with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
  • Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, place the rolls in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven before serving.

Helpful Notes

  • Use any type of cheese you prefer; Swiss or mozzarella are great alternatives to cheddar.
  • You can add a touch of mustard or mayo inside the rolls before baking for extra flavor.
  • For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling.

Tips from well-known chefs

  • Chef Paul Hollywood suggests ensuring the dough is well-kneaded and smooth for the best texture.
  • Chef Mary Berry recommends using high-quality ham and cheese for the most flavorful rolls.
  • Chef Gordon Ramsay advises letting the rolls cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls
Ham and Cheese Bread Rolls | Myhomemaderecipe.com