🥖 Soft Cream Cheese Bread Rolls
These soft cream cheese bread rolls are rich, fluffy, and wonderfully buttery. Made with a simple dough enriched with cream cheese and butter, they bake up with a golden crust and a tender interior that’s perfect for breakfast, dinner, or as a snack. Although the recipe is easy to prepare, allowing the dough to rest properly will give you the best texture and flavor.
📝 Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 cups (625 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (125 g) softened butter or margarine
- 7 ounces (200 g) grated cream cheese
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon sesame or poppy seeds for topping
👩🍳 Full Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, eggs, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Gradually add the flour while mixing with a spoon or your hands. Once the dough starts to come together, add the softened butter and grated cream cheese.
Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth, soft, and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rest
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest in a warm place for 45–60 minutes, or until it has noticeably expanded. This resting period helps develop a lighter, softer texture.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough gently and divide it into 10–12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between each roll.
Cover the rolls again and let them rest for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg yolk to create a shiny, golden finish. If desired, sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and beautifully golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter, jam, or alongside soups and stews.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use warm, not hot, water to help create a soft dough.
- Knead thoroughly to develop a light, airy crumb.
- For extra flavor, mix chopped herbs or shredded cheddar into the dough.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
⏱️ Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours
- Servings: 10–12 rolls
These Soft Cream Cheese Bread Rolls are fluffy, buttery, and packed with rich flavor. Their golden crust and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a delicious homemade bread that the whole family will enjoy. 🍞🧀