Cheddar Scallion Rolls

Forget everything you know about sweet breakfast rolls. These Cheddar Scallion Rolls deliver all the satisfaction of homemade bread with a savory twist that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Sweet bread rolls like cinnamon rolls and carrot cake rolls are a delicious treat for breakfast and snack.

What about when you crave a warm, savory baked good? Think buttery, cheesy, oniony layers wrapped in a pillowy soft dough enriched with sesame oil—a technique borrowed from Asian-style scallion breads that adds an irresistible nutty depth.

What’s the Difference?

Key Ingredients

The Dough:

• All-purpose flour: I highly recommend King Arthur Baking unbleached AP flour or Kirkland Signature AP organic unbleached flour
• Yeast: Whether you use instant yeast or dry active yeast, ensure your yeast still works!
• Butter AND Oil in the dough: Adds richness, extends self-life, and creates nice exterior crust

The Filling:

• Kewpie mayo: Japanese mayo adds tang and flavor (MSG), can substitute regular mayo but it won’t taste the same
• Sesame oil: Just one teaspoon transforms the flavor profile. I prefer Kadoya roasted sesame oil
• Fresh scallions: Use both white and light green parts for maximum flavor
• Sharp cheddar: Quality matters here; freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded

Step by Step Assembly: Savory Rolls

1. Activate Yeast. Dissolve yeast and sugar in 110°F water—too hot kills yeast, too cool won’t activate. Look for bubbles forming on the surface.
2. Mix Dough. Mix flour and salt, then gradually incorporate into yeast mixture with egg. Add butter one tablespoon at a time—this gradual addition creates a tender crumb. Knead until smooth and elastic (2 minutes in stand mixer, 8-10 by hand).
3. First Rise. Dough should double in size. Place in a greased bowl, cover with lid or plastic wrap. Ideal temperature is 75-80°F.
4. Prepare Filling: Mix softened butter, Kewpie mayo, sesame oil, and salt until creamy like mayonnaise. Fold in chopped scallions. This should be spreadable—if too thick, let butter soften more.
5. Fill and Slice Fill: Roll dough to 20×14-inch rectangle on clean work surface. Spread filling edge to edge, sprinkle cheddar all over. Measuring from the long end, slice dough into 12 equal strips.
6. Roll Spirals: Starting from the edge closest to you, begin rolling the dough away from your body. Use your fingertips to lift and guide the edge up and over the filling, then continue rolling in a tight, even cylinder. Place in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
7. Second Rise: Cover rolls and place in warm area. Rolls should look puffy and touch each other Preheat oven.
8. Egg Wash and Bake: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle sesame seeds. Bake until golden brown and internal temp reaches 185°F.

Strip Method for Perfect Filled Rolls

The strip method technique that creates beautiful, defined layers in filled cinnamon rolls, chocolate walnut rolls, and banana rolls. Here’s how it works:

• Roll your dough into a rectangle as directed (for example, 20×14 inches), with the longer side positioned horizontally in front of you.
• Spread your filling evenly across the entire surface.
• Cut or slice rectangle into number of desired strips (usually 12).
• Starting from the edge closest to you, begin rolling the dough away from your body. Use your fingertips to lift and guide the edge up and over the filling, then continue rolling in a tight, even cylinder.

Tip: Apply gentle, consistent pressure. Don’t roll so tightly that filling squeezes out the sides

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to the amount of cheddar and scallions used in this recipe, more is definitely better! These rolls shine alongside:

• Holiday dinner tables
• Roasted chicken or pork dishes
• Asian-inspired soups and stews
• As sandwich rolls (try with pulled pork or fried chicken)

Storage: Keep in airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm briefly before serving.

More Savory Bread Recipes

• Roasted Green Chile Cheese Bread Rolls
• Cheddar Everything Babka Buns
• Baked Ham and Swiss Rolls

These Cheddar Scallion Rolls prove that savory bread doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive. The combination of enriched dough, sesame-infused butter filling, and sharp cheddar creates layers of flavor that rival any bakery—but better, because they’re fresh from your own kitchen.