If you’re looking for a comforting, savory treat to add to your baking repertoire, these Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Rolls are a must-try. Soft, fluffy dough filled with melty cheddar cheese and sweet, caramelized onions—what’s not to love? Plus, they’re eggless, making them perfect for those who avoid eggs or simply want a plant-based alternative without compromising on taste or texture.
These rolls are a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors, with the sweetness of caramelized onions complementing the sharpness of the cheddar. Whether you serve them as a side dish to a hearty meal or enjoy them as a snack, these rolls are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Rolls (Eggless)
These rolls are indulgent but still simple to make. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Fluffy and soft — The dough comes out perfectly pillowy every time.
- Cheese heaven — Melted cheddar cheese adds an irresistible creamy richness.
- Sweet and savory — The caramelized onions are the star, adding a deep sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Eggless — This recipe is egg-free without sacrificing any of the texture or flavor.
- Versatile — Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy dinner at home to a special celebration.
This recipe brings together everything you crave: the comfort of freshly baked rolls, the richness of cheddar, and the natural sweetness of caramelized onions. Whether you’re baking for yourself or for a group, these rolls will surely impress!
Ingredients in Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Rolls (Eggless)
For the dough, you’ll need:
- 1 cup milk (250 ml) — Provides moisture and helps activate the yeast.
- 2 and 1/4 tsp active dry yeast — The key to making the dough rise perfectly.
- 1 tbsp sugar — Feeds the yeast and helps the dough rise.
- 4 tbsp olive oil — Adds richness and helps keep the dough soft.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g) — Forms the base of the dough.
- 1 and 1/2 tsp salt — Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- 2 tsp mixed herb seasoning or Italian seasoning (salted) — Adds an extra layer of flavor (or skip and increase salt to 2 tsp).
For the filling:
- 2 and 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese — The star ingredient that melts beautifully.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced — The caramelized onions provide that sweet, savory depth of flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil — Used to caramelize the onions and add richness to the filling.
(Note: Full measurements and ingredients can be found in the recipe card at the bottom!)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, warm the milk slightly (it should be lukewarm, not hot). Add the sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and mixed herbs (if using). Add the olive oil and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Caramelize the Onions
While the dough rises, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top.
Step 7: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough into a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 8: Final Rise
Cover the rolls with a damp towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 375°F (190°C).
Step 9: Bake the Rolls
Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbling out from the sides. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the rolls warm as a side dish or snack, and enjoy the cheesy, onion-filled goodness!
How to Make Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Rolls (Eggless)?
These rolls are perfect to serve at:
- Family gatherings — These rolls are always a hit at dinner tables.
- Brunches — Perfect for adding a savory touch to your brunch spread.
- Parties — Slice them into smaller pieces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Meal prep — Bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!
Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
How to Serve Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Rolls (Eggless)?
These rolls are incredibly versatile! Try serving them with:
- Soup — A bowl of tomato or vegetable soup makes the perfect pairing.
- Salads — Serve alongside a refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Pasta dishes — They also go well with your favorite pasta dish for a more substantial meal.
You can even enjoy them by themselves with a little butter for that extra indulgence.
Additional Tips
- Storage: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their softness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the rolls before baking. Just slice them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them rise and bake as usual.
- Flavor Boost: Try adding some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of garlic powder to the dough for even more flavor.
Tips & Variations / Quick Tips
- Add a bit of bacon or sausage to the filling for an extra savory twist.
- Use any cheese you like—Gruyère or mozzarella would work wonderfully too!
- For a dairy-free version, swap the milk with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the next steps.
Q2: How can I ensure the onions caramelize perfectly?
A2: Cook them over medium-low heat and stir occasionally to prevent burning. Patience is key! The slower you cook them, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be.
Q3: Can I freeze these rolls?
A3: Absolutely! Freeze them either before or after baking. If frozen before baking, let them rise before baking as normal.
Q4: Can I use store-bought caramelized onions?
A4: Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought caramelized onions can be used as a shortcut.
Q5: How do I reheat leftover rolls?
A5: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
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Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Rolls (Eggless)
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup milk 250 ml
- 2 and 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour 360 g
- 1 and 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp mixed herb seasoning or Italian seasoning salted; if skipped, increase salt in dough to 2 tsp
- For the Filling:
- 2 and 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 large onion thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: Heat the milk in a small bowl until warm (not hot). Stir in the yeast and sugar, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture and olive oil. Add the flour, salt, and seasoning, and mix until a shaggy dough forms. If using a mixer, knead on medium-low for 3-4 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky. If making by hand, knead on a floured surface for 5-6 minutes until smooth.
- First Rise: Lightly oil a bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with clingfilm. Let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled.
- Caramelize Onions: While dough rises, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the sliced onions until browned. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch pan (or use two smaller pans, as described).
- Shape the Rolls: Once dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a 12×16 inch rectangle. Brush with the remaining olive oil.
- Add Filling: Spread the grated cheddar cheese and caramelized onions evenly over the dough.
- Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly from the shorter end and slice into 12 equal rolls. Arrange them in the prepared pan(s), leaving space between each roll. Cover with clingfilm and let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Uncover the rolls, sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese, and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes, then cut them and enjoy! Store at room temperature for up to a day and refrigerate for 3-4 days.
