Fluffy Breakfast Rolls with Bacon & Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Imagine this: the warm aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the smoky scent of crispy bacon and the creamy richness of melted cheese. It’s the kind of smell that has everyone racing to the table—even the ones you thought were still asleep. The first time I made these fluffy breakfast rolls with bacon and cheese, I was trying to impress my family during a Sunday brunch. Let me tell you, the reaction was priceless—eyes widened, plates cleaned, and compliments flying left, right, and center.

These rolls are so much more than just breakfast food. They’re comfort in its purest form, perfect for slow weekends, holiday mornings, or simply those days when you want to treat yourself. Honestly, I wish I’d known about this recipe years ago—it’s become a staple in our home, especially when hosting guests. (They call them “magic rolls.”) After testing and tweaking this recipe countless times, I can confidently say it will be a hit in your kitchen too. Bookmark this one—you’ll want to make these again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: With some basic prep the night before, these breakfast rolls are a breeze to whip up, making them ideal for busy mornings.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients sitting in your fridge and pantry right now—no need for a fancy shopping trip.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast, brunch with friends, or even a holiday feast, these rolls fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves bacon and cheese! These rolls are a guaranteed hit with kids, adults, and anyone who enjoys comfort food.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The fluffy texture combined with the savory filling is pure bliss. Trust me, you’ll want seconds—and maybe thirds.

What truly sets these breakfast rolls apart is the balance between the soft, pillowy dough and the savory goodness inside. The rolls have just enough richness to feel indulgent without being heavy. Plus, the addition of crispy bacon and gooey cheese makes them irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress your brunch guests or just want to savor a warm, homemade breakfast, this recipe has everything you need to start your day with a smile.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Most of these items are pantry staples, and there’s plenty of room for customization.

• For the dough:
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
• For the filling:
  • 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, for a pop of freshness)
• For brushing:
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra flavor)

If you’re out of cheddar, don’t worry—mozzarella or gouda work beautifully here. And if bacon’s not your thing, feel free to swap in cooked sausage or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: One large for the dough and smaller ones for prep work.
• Stand mixer: Optional, but makes kneading much easier (a sturdy wooden spoon works too).
• Rolling pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
• Baking sheet: A standard-sized sheet for baking the rolls.
• Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash.

If you don’t have a stand mixer, don’t sweat it—I’ve made these rolls by hand plenty of times. Just be prepared to put in a little elbow grease when kneading the dough. Also, parchment paper is your best friend for easy cleanup!

Preparation Method

1. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes). The dough should be smooth and elastic.
3. Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours in a warm spot until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the filling: While the dough rises, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Grate the cheese and chop the chives, if using.
5. Roll out the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
6. Add the filling: Evenly spread the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle with chives for extra flavor.
7. Roll and shape: Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal, then slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.
8. Second rise: Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
9. Brush and bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with beaten egg and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown. For extra shine, brush them with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.

Pro tip: If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour while kneading, but don’t overdo it—it’s supposed to be soft and slightly tacky.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t rush the rise: Allow the dough to double in size—it’s worth the wait for fluffy rolls.
• Use fresh ingredients: Crispy bacon and high-quality cheese make all the difference in flavor.
• Seal the rolls tightly: Pinch the seams to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
• Preheat your oven: Always make sure your oven is fully heated before you bake for even cooking.
• Watch the bake time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the rolls to avoid over-baking.

One lesson I learned the hard way? Don’t skimp on the egg wash—it gives the rolls that irresistible golden color.

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian version: Swap the bacon for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sundried tomatoes.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and adjust the liquid slightly as needed.
• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a kick.
• Cheese lovers: Mix in a variety of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for extra flavor.
• Sweet and savory: Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar to the filling for a unique twist.

My personal favorite? Adding a dollop of cream cheese to the filling for an extra creamy texture—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These breakfast rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice for the ultimate morning treat. For larger gatherings, you can serve them alongside scrambled eggs and a fresh fruit salad to round out the meal.

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. They’ll keep well at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Pro tip: These rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These breakfast rolls are a treat, but they do offer some nutritional benefits. Each roll is packed with protein from the bacon and cheese, which helps keep you full longer. The fluffy dough provides a satisfying carb boost to fuel your morning.

Estimated per roll: 250-300 calories, 12g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates.

For dietary preferences, you can easily adapt the recipe to be gluten-free or vegetarian, making it suitable for a variety of needs. Just be mindful of potential allergens like dairy and gluten if serving a crowd.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, these fluffy breakfast rolls with bacon and cheese are the answer. They’re warm, comforting, and packed with irresistible flavor—and did I mention how easy they are to make? I love how they bring people together, whether it’s a casual brunch or a special occasion.

Feel free to experiment with the fillings and make this recipe your own. I’d love to hear how you customize it—leave a comment below and let me know how it turns out! Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll be making on repeat. Here’s to happy mornings and delicious rolls!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

What’s the best way to cook bacon for this recipe?

Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Either method works!

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza or crescent roll dough if you’re short on time. The texture won’t be quite as fluffy, but it’s still delicious.

How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the seams well. Also, don’t overfill the rolls—less is more!

Can I freeze these rolls after baking?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

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