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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the warm milk and softened butter, and mix until a dough forms. Add the egg and continue kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable.
Once the dough is smooth and elastic, place it in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. The size of the rectangle will depend on how many rolls you want to make, but aim for a 12×8-inch (30×20 cm) rectangle.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise (if using) over the rolled-out dough. Then, evenly distribute the sliced or diced ham and shredded cheese over the dough. You can also add a little extra seasoning, such as black pepper or garlic powder, for more flavor.
Step 4: Roll Up the Dough
Carefully roll up the dough from the longer edge into a tight cylinder, like you would for cinnamon rolls. Once you have a long roll, pinch the edges to seal them and ensure the filling stays inside.
Step 5: Slice the Rolls
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick rolls. Arrange them in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion as they bake.
Step 6: Let the Rolls Rise
Cover the dish with a clean cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until they puff up and touch each other. While the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
Before baking, beat the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of the rolls. This will give them a lovely golden finish once baked.
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted. The rolls should be soft, fluffy, and deliciously aromatic.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving, or enjoy them warm with a side of mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. These rolls are fantastic on their own or as part of a larger spread for lunch or dinner.
Variations and Tips
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can use any cheese you like. Try Swiss, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavors.
- Add Vegetables: If you want to sneak in some veggies, add finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or onions to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Pre-made Dough: If you’re short on time, you can substitute the homemade dough with store-bought pizza dough or crescent roll dough. Just roll it out, fill, and bake as directed.
- Extra Toppings: For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or dried herbs (like oregano or rosemary) on top of the rolls before baking.
Why These Ham and Cheese Rolls Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing lunch for the week, or craving a savory snack, these Ham and Cheese Sandwich Bread Rolls are an easy and versatile option. They combine the simple yet comforting flavors of ham and cheese with a soft, homemade bread roll that is warm and satisfying.
- Perfect for Parties: These rolls are great for gatherings or parties. Serve them as finger foods or alongside salads for a casual, crowd-pleasing meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Bake a batch and store them in an airtight container for several days. They reheat beautifully and make a great grab-and-go lunch or snack.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the combination of gooey cheese and savory ham, and they’re perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
Final Thoughts
These Ham and Cheese Sandwich Bread Rolls are an absolute winner when it comes to quick, delicious, and versatile meals. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing you to customize the filling and dough to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or a party snack, these rolls will become a go-to favorite in no time. So why wait? Whip up a batch of these warm, cheesy rolls and enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness!
