Imagine biting into a soft, golden roll filled with melty cheese and savory ham — that’s exactly what these Ham and Cheese Rolls deliver. With a pillowy dough encasing a rich, cheesy center, these rolls strike the perfect balance between hearty and comforting, making them ideal for brunch, lunchboxes, or a satisfying snack.
Whether served warm for a weekend breakfast, packed for a school lunch, or offered as a party appetizer, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser. They’re incredibly versatile and easy to customize — you can swap out the ham for turkey, add a sprinkle of herbs, or experiment with different cheeses. Every bite guarantees a warm, melty, savory experience that’s simply irresistible.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons sugar
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2 teaspoons instant yeast
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½ teaspoon salt
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¾ cup warm milk
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1 egg
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup diced ham
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
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Add warm milk, egg, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
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Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
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Flatten each piece, place some diced ham and shredded cheese in the center, and seal tightly.
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Place rolls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
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Brush the tops with egg yolk for a shiny golden finish.
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Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 8 rolls
Ham and Cheese Rolls have long held a cherished place in home kitchens around the world. Originating as a practical way to repurpose leftover ham, these fluffy, savory rolls have evolved into a comfort food favorite beloved by families and foodies alike. Their simple, accessible ingredients — soft enriched dough, savory diced ham, and melty cheese — come together to create a dish that feels both nostalgic and satisfying. Whether you grew up enjoying them fresh out of the oven or are discovering them for the first time, Ham and Cheese Rolls are a timeless treat that brings warmth and joy to any table.
What makes this recipe particularly special is its flexibility and ease of preparation. Using basic pantry ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch of rolls that taste like they came straight from a bakery. The dough is soft and fluffy thanks to the combination of warm milk, egg, and butter, which enrich the texture and flavor. Meanwhile, the filling offers an irresistible combination of gooey melted cheese and the savory, slightly smoky notes of diced ham. The glossy egg-washed top adds an inviting, golden-brown finish, making each roll as beautiful as it is delicious.
One of the greatest benefits of this recipe is its versatility. You can adapt the filling based on what you have available — turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like sautéed spinach and feta cheese work beautifully. The recipe also scales easily for gatherings, brunch spreads, or holiday dinners. Simply double the ingredients to make a bigger batch without complicating the process. These rolls freeze exceptionally well, so you can make them ahead of time, store them, and have homemade baked goods ready whenever you need them.
Nutritionally, these rolls strike a balance between indulgence and sustenance. Ham provides a good source of protein, while cheese contributes calcium and flavor richness. By using real ingredients rather than processed alternatives, you can enjoy a wholesome homemade snack without hidden additives. Additionally, homemade baking allows you to control the salt, fat, and portion sizes, making these rolls a much healthier option compared to store-bought savory pastries.
Another standout quality of this Ham and Cheese Roll recipe is the joy it brings to mealtime. These rolls are universally appealing — kids love the cheesy surprise inside, and adults appreciate the hearty, comforting flavors. They are perfect for packing into school lunches, serving at brunch buffets, or offering as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make wonderful party appetizers, game-day snacks, or picnic treats because they are easy to transport and serve.
Baking these rolls is also a rewarding experience. Watching the dough rise, shaping the rolls by hand, and breathing in the mouthwatering aroma as they bake is both therapeutic and satisfying. Few things can match the sense of accomplishment that comes with pulling a tray of golden, homemade Ham and Cheese Rolls from your oven. It’s a simple pleasure that connects you to traditional home baking and provides a moment of delicious joy to share with others.
In short, this Ham and Cheese Rolls recipe is one of the best you’ll find because it hits all the right notes: easy, adaptable, delicious, comforting, and perfect for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a complete beginner, you’ll find this recipe to be a foolproof, crowd-pleasing addition to your kitchen repertoire. Try them once, and you’ll quickly see why they’re a beloved classic in so many households.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Rolls are the ultimate homemade comfort food — soft, fluffy, and filled with savory goodness in every bite. They bring together the familiar flavors of hearty ham and melty cheese, wrapped in tender, golden dough that’s baked to perfection. This recipe is easy enough for beginner bakers yet rewarding enough for seasoned home cooks looking for a satisfying classic to share with family and friends. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or as a cozy snack, these rolls offer a warm, delicious, and truly comforting experience. Once you try them fresh out of the oven, you’ll see why they’re a timeless favorite and a must-have addition to your collection of homemade recipes.