Ingredients:

  • ¼ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
  • tablespoons Granulated Sugar
  • cup Whole Milk, warmed to lukewarm
  • cups All-Purpose Flour, plus more for dusting
  • teaspoon Fine Sea Salt
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter, softened
  • Large Eggs, lightly beaten
  • tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted (for filling)
  • cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly grated
  • cup cooked Smoked Bacon pieces or quality Ham, finely diced
  • ¼ cup fresh Chives, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • Large Egg mixed with 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)
  • Flaky Sea Salt (for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let stand 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and beaten eggs. Mix on low speed until just combined.
  3. Knead: Increase mixer speed to medium and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and allow to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (approx. 1 to 1.5 hours).
  5. Prepare Filling: While the dough rises, mix all filling ingredients (melted butter, cheese, bacon/ham, chives, pepper) in a small bowl.
  6. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough. Roll out onto a lightly floured surface into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Brush the surface evenly with the melted butter, then sprinkle the savoury filling mixture over the top, leaving a small border clean.
  7. Roll and Cut: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam closed. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
  8. Second Rise (Make-Ahead Step): Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight (minimum 12 hours).
  9. Bake Preparation: Before baking, allow rolls to sit at room temperature for 45–60 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  10. Cook: Bake for 20–25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until deeply golden brown. Cool slightly before serving warm.