Soft • Fluffy • Rich • Bold flavor • Pull-apart texture

Soft, pillowy, and packed with bold flavor — these jalapeño cheddar dinner rolls are the ultimate comfort bake with a savory twist. Made with an enriched, milk-based dough, they bake up beautifully fluffy with a tender crumb, melty pockets of sharp cheddar, and gentle warmth from fresh jalapeños.

Unlike crusty artisan breads, this dough is designed for luxurious softness, giving you light, pull-apart rolls that stay moist and rich long after baking. Whether served alongside soups, turned into gourmet burger buns, or enjoyed warm with butter, these rolls deliver bakery-style results every time.

Ingredients – Perfected Formula

390g all-purpose flour (3 cups + 2 tbsp)

40g sugar (3 tbsp)

7g instant yeast (2¼ tsp)

8g salt (1½ tsp)

180g warm whole milk (¾ cup)

1 large egg (50g)

45g unsalted butter, very soft (3 tbsp)

120g sharp cheddar — half shredded, half in small cubes

1 medium jalapeño — deseeded, finely diced

Egg Wash

1 egg

1 tbsp milk

Optional Toppings

Flaky salt

Extra shredded cheddar

Thin jalapeño slices

Method – Professional Roll Technique

Step 1: Dough Mixing

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or large mixing bowl), combine:

Flour

Sugar

Yeast

Salt

Add the warm milk and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add the softened butter and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and supple.

Once proper gluten development is achieved, gently fold in the shredded cheddar, cheese cubes, and diced jalapeños.
Adding inclusions after gluten development ensures a soft crumb and prevents tearing.

Step 2: Bulk Fermentation

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover and allow to proof for 60–75 minutes at 24–26°C, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Egg Wash & Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F / 190°C.

Gently brush the tops with egg wash. Sprinkle optional toppings if desired.

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 93°C / 200°F.

Immediately brush the hot buns lightly with melted butter for a soft, glossy finish.

Storage & Serving Tips

Shelf Life

Room Temperature: 24 hours

Refrigerated: Up to 3 days

Frozen: Up to 30 days

Reheating Instructions

Oven: Warm at 325°F for 5–6 minutes

Microwave: 15 seconds for soft, fresh-from-the-oven texture

Serving Suggestions

Pair with soups, chili, or hearty stews

Use as gourmet burger buns

Slice and toast for breakfast sandwiches

Serve warm with whipped butter or honey butter

Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #FingerlicCakes !