Cheese and Onion Rolls

Cheese and onion rolls are my favorite homemade snack when I want something warm and comforting without too much fuss. These flaky puff pastry parcels filled with melting sharp cheddar and sweet sautéed onions come together quickly and taste like a treat straight from a bakery.

I often whip these up when unexpected guests drop by or when I crave something cheesy and savory after a long day. They never disappoint with their buttery flakiness and sweet sharp filling.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheets: ready rolled to save time and ensure crisp, flaky texture. Look for all-butter pastry if possible for a richer flavor.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: shredded fresh for melting quality and to provide a strong cheesy punch. Choosing a good quality sharp cheddar makes all the difference here.
• Sweet onions: finely chopped and cooked to soften and bring out their natural sweetness. Vidalia or any mild onion works well to balance the sharp cheese.
• Unsalted butter: helps caramelize the onions gently without adding too much salt.
• Egg: for wash to brush on the rolls before baking so they turn golden brown and glossy. Use a fresh egg for best shine.
• Salt and pepper: to season the onion mixture just right enhancing all the flavors.

Instructions

Build The Onion Filling:

Finely chop two medium sweet onions. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat and add the onions. Cook gently for about five minutes stirring occasionally until the onions are softened and fragrant. This step is key to mellowing the onions’ sharpness and brings out their sweetness.

Melt Cheese Into Onions:

Reduce heat to low and stir in one cup of shredded sharp cheddar. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and blended with the onions. Make sure the mixture is smooth and creamy to avoid clumps inside the rolls.

Prepare The Puff Pastry:

Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases and even the thickness. Cut the sheet into squares approximately 4 by 4 inches. This size allows enough filling and easy folding without being too bulky.

Assemble And Seal Rolls:

Place a tablespoon of the cheesy onion filling in the center of each square. Fold the square diagonally to form a triangle. Pinch the edges tightly together to seal in the filling. This prevents the filling leaking during baking and keeps the roll intact.

Egg Wash And Bake:

Beat one egg thoroughly. Using a pastry brush, coat the tops and edges of each roll with the egg wash. This gives a shiny golden finish once baked. Preheat the oven to 400°F or 200°C. Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until puffed up and deeply golden.

Sharp cheddar is my secret weapon here. It melts beautifully but still packs that tangy bite that contrasts perfectly with the soft sweet onion. This recipe reminds me of weekend afternoons in my childhood kitchen when my mom would make these rolls fresh from the oven while we waited eagerly nearby. It’s the comforting smell of butter, cheese, and caramelized onions bundled in flaky pastry that always feels like home.

Storage Tips

Save any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They reheat beautifully in a toaster oven or regular oven to bring back the crispiness without losing flavor. Avoid microwaving as the pastry can turn soggy.

Ingredient Swaps

Try swapping cheddar for a milder cheese like mozzarella for a softer flavor or a sharper blue cheese for a more intense taste. You can also garnish with herbs like thyme or chives mixed into the filling for an herbal twist.

Serving Ideas

These rolls shine as a snack paired with a cup of tea or a light salad as part of a lunch spread. They also work great alongside soups especially tomato or butternut squash for a cozy meal.

These cheese and onion rolls are a comforting and easy snack that will impress every time.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of cheese works best for these rolls?

Sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor that pairs well with sweet onions and holds up nicely when melted.

→ Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, the sautéed onion and cheese mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before assembling.

→ How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are ready when the puff pastry turns a deep golden brown and the filling is heated through.

→ Can I use frozen puff pastry sheets?

Frozen puff pastry works well; just thaw it according to package instructions before rolling and filling.

→ What is the purpose of the egg wash?

Brushing the rolls with beaten egg gives the pastry a shiny, golden finish and helps seal the edges.