Description
These Homemade Italian Herb Bread Rolls are soft, flavorful, and topped with melted Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. Featuring a fragrant blend of oregano, garlic powder, parsley, and parmesan, these rolls are perfect as a savory side or snack. The dough is enriched with eggs and optional instant mashed potato flakes for extra tenderness, then baked to golden perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 cups warm water (709 ml)
- 4 Tbsp dry active yeast (45 grams)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (60 grams)
- 1/3 cup oil (78 ml)
- 1 Tbsp salt (20 grams)
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup instant mashed potato flakes (optional) (30 grams)
- 7 1/2 cups bread flour (1,140 grams)
Herb Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp oregano
- 2 Tbsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp dried parsley
- 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese
Toppings
- Shredded Colby cheese (quantity as desired)
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (quantity as desired)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast and Mix Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the dry active yeast and warm water until fully dissolved. Add sugar, oil, salt, eggs, and optional instant mashed potato flakes, whisking thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Knead Dough: Gradually incorporate the bread flour while kneading on low speed using the dough hook attachment for about 6 minutes until a soft, elastic dough forms. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes to properly hydrate.
- Shape Rolls: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Divide it into 4 equal pieces, then cut each piece in half again, making 8 equal portions. Gently roll each piece into a 12-inch long log, keeping uniform thickness by rolling carefully.
- Prepare for Proofing: Lightly spray the tops of the dough logs with water to help the herbs stick. Then dredge each roll in the Italian herb seasoning mixture (oregano, garlic powder, parsley, parmesan), ensuring an even coating on top.
- Score and Proof: Place the rolls on silicone sub roll mats to promote even baking. Using a sharp blade, score 3 to 4 shallow slashes along the top of each roll to control expansion while baking. Let proof in a warm place until the dough triples in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Add Cheese Topping and Bake: Once proofed, sprinkle shredded Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the rolls. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and allow to cool in the silicone molds to maintain shape and texture before removing carefully to serve.
Notes
- Instant mashed potato flakes are optional but help create a softer, moister crumb.
- Ensure the water for yeast activation is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Herb seasonings can be adjusted to taste or substituted with fresh herbs for a different flavor profile.
- Use silicone mats or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- For cheese toppings, adjust quantity to preference or substitute with your favorite cheeses.
