If you’re a fan of soft, fluffy bread and melty, gooey cheese, these Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Rolls are the ultimate treat. With a golden crust, an herby aroma, and a center bursting with molten mozzarella, they’re perfect for everything from casual snacking to an elegant dinner side dish.
The combination of fresh rosemary and creamy cheese gives these rolls a rustic yet indulgent vibe that feels right at home on any table. Let’s dive into the recipe to make these bakery-style delights in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Rolls
These rolls are more than just bread—they’re an experience. Imagine biting into a warm, freshly baked roll and discovering the rich, gooey mozzarella inside, complemented by the earthy fragrance of rosemary. They’re perfect as a standalone snack, a side dish to soups or pasta, or even a creative addition to your appetizer spread.
Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering or a weeknight indulgence, they’re guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
For Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Stuff the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 10–12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disk and place a cube of mozzarella and a pinch of chopped rosemary in the center.
Fold the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a smooth ball. Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Add the Toppings
Brush each roll with beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust. Sprinkle the tops with fresh rosemary, grated Parmesan, and a touch of sea salt.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fragrant. The cheese inside should be fully melted and gooey.
6. Serve Warm
Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, so the mozzarella is perfectly gooey and the rosemary aroma fills the air.
Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Rolls
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and adds a creamy, rich texture to the rolls.
- Don’t Overstuff: While tempting, overloading the rolls with cheese can cause leaks during baking.
- Double the Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, add rosemary directly into the dough as well as on top.
Variations to Try
- Garlic Herb Rolls: Add minced garlic to the dough or sprinkle it on top along with the rosemary.
- Spicy Cheesy Rolls: Mix red pepper flakes into the mozzarella filling for a kick of heat.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan mozzarella and skip the egg wash, brushing the rolls with olive oil instead.
Why These Rolls Are a Must-Try
The combination of soft, freshly baked bread with the rich, molten mozzarella filling is pure comfort food at its finest. The rosemary adds an earthy, aromatic touch that elevates these rolls from simple to sensational.
Serve them as a side dish with soup or pasta, a snack for game nights, or even as a party appetizer. These Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Rolls are versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to become a household favorite.
