Here’s a rich, bakery-style recipe for Delicious Stuffed Rolls — soft, fluffy rolls filled with your choice of savory or sweet stuffing. This version is a savory cheese and herb stuffed roll, but you can easily adapt it for meats, veggies, or even sweet fillings like Nutella or jam.
Delicious Stuffed Rolls (Savory Cheese & Herb Version)
Yield: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~3 hours
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup warm water
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella (or your favorite cheese mix)
- ½ cup cream cheese or ricotta (optional for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, basil) or 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, grated Parmesan, or garlic butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, softened butter, and egg.
- Mix and knead (by hand or with a dough hook) for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, mix mozzarella, cream cheese or ricotta (if using), herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Once dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a small circle (about 4 inches wide).
- Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center.
- Pinch the edges together to seal and form a ball, placing seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Proof & Bake
- Cover shaped rolls and let rise again for 30–40 minutes, until slightly puffy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with toppings (optional).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm from the oven, brushed with garlic butter or sprinkled with herbs. These are great as appetizers, snacks, or alongside soups and salads.
Variations:
- Pizza Rolls: Add pepperoni or chopped veggies to the cheese filling.
- Breakfast Rolls: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon bits, and cheese.
- Sweet Rolls: Use jam, Nutella, or sweet cream cheese for filling; top with powdered sugar or glaze.
- Make-ahead: Shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Let rise at room temp for 30 minutes before baking.
Would you like a sweet version next, or a version filled with meat or vegetables?