The first time I pulled a batch of these Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls from the oven, the aroma almost brought me to my knees. The rich scent of melted butter mingling with garlic and fresh herbs danced through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite little bakery in town. Each roll is a delightful surprise, soft and fluffy on the inside, with a cheesy, golden crust that beckons you for just one more bite.
What I love most about this recipe is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty soup on a chilly evening or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, these rolls are sure to wow. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly, appealing to both cheese lovers and herb enthusiasts alike. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience for rising, you can elevate your homemade bread game to a whole new level. Let’s dive in and make some kitchen magic together!
Why love Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls?
Simplicity and Flavor: This recipe combines the ease of making sourdough with the savory punch of cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them warm as a side for dinner or as an appetizer at gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves warm, cheesy rolls!
Versatile Additions: Customize with your favorite herbs or cheese varieties for a personal touch.
Time Well Spent: While they require some rising time, the result is worth the wait! Embrace the joy of making bread from scratch with these delightful rolls. If you’re looking for more bread tips, check out our beginner-friendly sourdough guide.
Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup sourdough starter – A bubbly starter gives these rolls their signature flavor and texture.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – This creates a sturdy foundation for the rolls and contributes to that perfect chew.
- 1 cup warm water (110°F) – Helps activate the yeast in the sourdough for a lovely rise.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for flavor—don’t skip this!
For the Flavor
- ½ cup butter (1 stick), melted – Adds richness and a beautiful golden color to the crust.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the rolls with a delightful aroma and taste.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) – Choose your favorite type for a melty, delicious surprise in every bite.
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, or thyme) – Fresh herbs elevate the flavor and add a touch of brightness to these rolls.
Enjoy making these Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls, and delight in how they transform any meal into a special occasion!
How to Make Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, warm water, and salt until blended. This forms the base of your dough and helps activate the sourdough’s natural flavors.
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Add Flour: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Keep mixing until everything is well combined and you can see specks of the starter throughout.
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Knead with Goodies: Knead the Dough: Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead in the melted butter, minced garlic, shredded cheese, and fresh herbs. Knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, around 1-2 hours. You’re looking for that beautiful puff!
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Shape the Rolls: Once risen, punch down the dough gently and shape it into individual rolls. Arrange them on a baking sheet, giving them just enough space to expand as they rise.
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Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a towel, letting them rise again for about 30 minutes. You’ll notice they’ll puff up nicely!
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top and fill the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Optional: Brush with melted butter right after baking for an extra touch of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls?
Imagine the delightful aroma of these rolls filling your home, inviting you to create a complete culinary experience.
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Hearty Vegetable Soup: A warm, comforting bowl enhances the softness of the rolls, creating a fulfilling meal.
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Zesty Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette balance the richness of the rolls, making for a refreshing side.
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Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp: The garlic flavor ties beautifully with the rolls, elevating your dining experience with a touch of seafood indulgence.
Pair your rolls with buttery shrimp, and you’ll experience a beautiful harmony of flavors. The rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover garlic butter!
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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta: This dish’s creaminess pairs exceptionally well with the cheesy, herb-infused rolls, offering a delicious contrast of textures.
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Crisp Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the soft rolls, enhancing your meal with vibrant colors and flavors.
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Red Wine: A glass of rich red wine complements the savory flavors beautifully, making your meal feel even more special.
For dessert, consider serving Chocolate Lava Cake; the warm, gooey center pairs wonderfully with the lightness of the sourdough rolls, rounding out the meal with a sweet finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings! To prepare ahead, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. After kneading all the ingredients together, simply shape the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and place them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, remove them from the refrigerator and let them rise in a warm area for about 1 hour. Since the rolls might be a bit chilled, keep an eye on them to ensure they puff up nicely. This way, you’ll have fresh, hot rolls ready to wow your guests with minimal effort!
Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls Variations
Get ready to sprinkle a little creativity into your rolls and make each batch a delightful surprise for your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring a 1:1 replacement for soft rolls everyone can enjoy.
Experimenting with different blends can yield unique flavors and textures, so don’t be afraid to try several options! -
Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dough for a zesty twist that’ll warm your soul.
These rolls are perfect for those who love a little heat, making every bite an exciting adventure. -
Pesto Infusion: Mix in ½ cup of store-bought or homemade pesto with the melted butter for a burst of herby flavor in every roll.
This salty and nutty addition is delightful and elevates the classic cheesy taste into something extraordinary. -
Extra Cheesy: Boost the cheese factor by adding a cup of your favorite cheese, like feta or gouda, to enhance the flavor profile.
Each roll becomes a surprise party for your palate with gooey bliss waiting inside! -
Herb Variance: Explore different herbs such as dill, basil, or chives in place of parsley, rosemary, or thyme for a refreshing take.
Combining various herbs offers endless possibilities and an aromatic twist that will uplift your kitchen ambiance. -
Savory Onion: Sauté a small onion until caramelized and fold it into the dough for a sweet, savory note that beautifully complements cheese.
This added layer of flavor transforms your rolls into a gourmet treat that guests will rave about! -
Cinnamon Sugar: For a sweet variation, sprinkle cinnamon and sugar over the shaped rolls before their second rise for a delightful dessert roll.
Pair them with coffee or tea, and watch as they disappear in no time during brunch gatherings. -
Seed Topping: Before baking, top your rolls with a mix of sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
This simple addition adds a touch of elegance that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep your rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain softness.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, place the rolls in the fridge for up to 5 days, wrapped in plastic to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Expert Tips for Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls
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Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active; this will guarantee the best rise and sour flavor in your rolls.
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Warm Water Temperature: Keep your water at 110°F. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cool can slow down the rising process.
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Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to rise until it’s doubled in size. Patience results in airy, fluffy rolls that are irresistible.
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Knead Thoroughly: Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This will enhance the texture and chew of your Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls.
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Adjust Flavors: Feel free to mix in different types of cheese, or herbs to suit your taste. Personalize each batch for a unique twist!
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Brushing Butter: For a golden finish, brush the rolls with melted butter immediately after they come out of the oven for added richness and warmth.
Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls Recipe FAQs
What kind of sourdough starter should I use?
Absolutely! Using a bubbly and active sourdough starter is key to achieving the perfect rise and flavor in your rolls. If your starter has been sitting in the fridge, feed it for a day or two before using to wake it up and ensure it’s full of life.
How should I store leftover rolls?
You can keep your Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic then refrigerate for up to 5 days. Make sure they are tightly wrapped to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze these rolls?
Very! To freeze, allow the rolls to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to an inactive starter or the temperature being too cold. Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and lively before starting, and provide a warm environment for rising, around 75-80°F is ideal. If your dough still won’t rise after 1-2 hours, try placing it in a slightly warm oven (turned off) with a bowl of hot water beneath it for extra warmth.
Are these rolls vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, they are! The Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls are vegetarian-friendly, making them a great option for gatherings. However, if you’re watching for lactose intolerance, feel free to substitute dairy butter with a plant-based alternative and adjust cheese to a lactose-free variety.
How can I enhance the flavor of these rolls?
I often recommend experimenting with different herb combinations to find your perfect flavor profile. For a refreshing twist, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or incorporate your favorite spices or seeds into the dough for added texture and taste. Enjoy mixing things up to create a batch that’s uniquely yours!
Soft Cheesy Herb & Butter Sourdough Rolls That Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, warm water, and salt until blended.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead in the melted butter, minced garlic, shredded cheese, and fresh herbs.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, around 1-2 hours.
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently and shape it into individual rolls. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Cover the shaped rolls with a towel, letting them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown.