Breakfast Rolls

Introduction

Breakfast Rolls are a perfect combination of fluffy dough and warm, comforting fillings. These rolls are soft, slightly sweet, and filled with a variety of options to suit every taste—whether you prefer classic cinnamon sugar, savory cheese and ham, or fruit-filled variations.

I first made these rolls when I was looking for a special treat for a weekend brunch, and they turned out to be a huge hit. The dough is soft and pillowy, and the fillings add just the right amount of flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. You can even get creative with your own fillings or add a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness.

These rolls are ideal for a weekend brunch, a holiday morning, or any time you want to indulge in a delicious homemade treat. Freshly baked and served warm, they’re the perfect way to start the day on a cozy note. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing with loved ones, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.

Perfect for:

• Weekend brunch
• Holiday mornings
• Family gatherings
• Special occasions
• Breakfast lovers

Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Rolls

Here’s why Breakfast Rolls will become your new favorite:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These rolls are soft and light, with a pillow-like texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth.
• Versatile Fillings: You can customize these rolls with different fillings to suit your taste, whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory.
• Great for Sharing: Perfect for a crowd, these rolls can be served on a brunch table, making them a hit at gatherings.
• Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, these rolls are simple to prepare, using basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Option: These rolls can be prepared in advance, either by refrigerating the dough overnight or freezing the unbaked rolls for a later time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 6g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Breakfast Rolls:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Filling Options:

• Sweet Filling (Cinnamon Sugar):
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• Savory Filling (Cheese and Ham):
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup cooked ham, diced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Fruit Filling (Mixed Berry):
  • 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken)

Ingredient Highlights

• Flour: All-purpose flour is the base of this dough, giving the rolls structure while keeping them soft and tender.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast is used to give the dough its rise, creating light, fluffy rolls.
• Butter: The butter adds richness and a slight sweetness to the dough, contributing to its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Milk: Warm milk activates the yeast and helps the dough come together smoothly.
• Filling Options: Whether you choose sweet cinnamon sugar, savory cheese and ham, or fruity berry filling, the options are endless for customization.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Breakfast Rolls:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough starts to come together. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you get a soft but manageable dough.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

5. Sweet Filling (Cinnamon Sugar): Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Set aside.
6. Savory Filling (Cheese and Ham): In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheese and diced ham. Set aside.
7. Fruit Filling (Mixed Berry): In a saucepan, combine the mixed berries and sugar. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the fruit breaks down. If desired, stir in cornstarch to thicken the mixture. Let it cool.

Shape and Bake the Rolls:

8. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches.
9. Add the Filling: Spread the filling of your choice evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
10. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams to seal the roll.
11. Cut the Rolls: Slice the dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
12. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for 30 minutes.
13. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
14. Cool: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Breakfast Rolls

Breakfast Rolls are a versatile and delicious treat that can be served in many ways:

• For Brunch or Breakfast: Serve the rolls warm alongside coffee, tea, or a freshly squeezed juice for a delightful morning meal.
• As a Snack: Enjoy these rolls as an afternoon snack with a cup of hot chocolate or milk.
• With Toppings: Drizzle the rolls with icing (for sweet versions) or a little honey butter (for savory versions) for an extra touch of flavor.
• For Gift-Giving: Package the rolls in a cute basket or box and give them as a homemade gift.

Additional Tips for Breakfast Rolls

Here are some tips to ensure your Breakfast Rolls are perfect every time:

• Use Warm Milk: The milk should be warm, not hot, to ensure the yeast activates properly.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead just until smooth and elastic. Overkneading can result in tough rolls.
• Let the Dough Rise: Be patient and let the dough rise until it doubles in size for the fluffiest rolls.
• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best results. If it doesn’t bubble when activated, it may be expired.
• Customize Fillings: Feel free to get creative with fillings—try chocolate, fruit jam, or even bacon and eggs for a breakfast-inspired variation.
• Icing for Sweet Rolls: For an added touch of sweetness, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk once the rolls are cooled.

Recipe Variations for Breakfast Rolls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Breakfast Rolls:

• Cinnamon Rolls: Stick with the classic cinnamon sugar filling for a traditional breakfast roll.
• Cheese and Bacon Rolls: Replace the ham with crispy bacon for a savory breakfast roll.
• Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add diced apples to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Rolls: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet treat.
• Lemon Blueberry Rolls: Add lemon zest to the dough and fill with fresh blueberries for a bright and fruity variation.
• Maple Pecan Rolls: Add chopped pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup for a nutty, sweet option.
• Peach Rolls: Use fresh peaches or peach preserves as the filling for a summery twist.
• Spinach and Feta Rolls: For a savory version, try filling the rolls with spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
• Orange Marmalade Rolls: Use orange marmalade as a sweet, citrusy filling for a refreshing take.
• Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Add pumpkin puree and spice to the dough for a cozy fall-inspired roll.

Freezing and Storage for Breakfast Rolls

• Freezing: These rolls can be frozen either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, prepare the rolls, place them in a baking dish, and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment for Breakfast Rolls

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Breakfast Rolls easier:

• Electric Mixer: Use a hand or stand mixer to help combine and knead the dough if you prefer.
• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps to roll the dough evenly for the perfect shape.
• Baking Dish or Baking Sheet: A 9×13-inch baking dish or a large baking sheet is ideal for baking the rolls.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is handy for brushing melted butter over the rolls before baking.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack allows the rolls to cool evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.
• Plastic Wrap: Use plastic wrap to cover the dough or rolls for the rise and refrigeration.

Frequently Asked Questions for Breakfast Rolls

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
   Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in the same amount, and skip the proofing step.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise, and then proceed with the shaping and second rise in the morning.
3. Can I freeze the rolls?
   Yes, you can freeze the rolls either before or after baking. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container.
4. Can I use a different filling?
   Yes, feel free to get creative with your filling! Chocolate, nuts, or even savory options like scrambled eggs and cheese work well.
5. How do I know when the rolls are done?
   The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and have a soft, fluffy texture when touched.

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Conclusion

Breakfast Rolls are the ultimate morning treat, offering a soft and fluffy dough that can be filled with whatever you crave. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet like cinnamon or fruit, or something savory like cheese and bacon, these rolls deliver the perfect bite every time. They’re so versatile, you can mix and match fillings based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

Not only are they easy to make, but these rolls are also a great way to share a warm, homemade breakfast or brunch with loved ones. The comforting scent of freshly baked rolls filling your kitchen is sure to start the day off right.

Can’t wait to see your Breakfast Rolls in action! Snap a photo and share it on social media—I’d love to see your creation! Happy baking!