Herby Cheese and Onion Rolls

Ingredients for Herby Cheese and Onion Rolls

For the Savory Shortcrust Pastry

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter (chilled and diced)	175 g
Plain flour	200 g
Salt	1 tsp
Cold water	2–3 tbsp
Egg yolk (for glazing)	1

For the Cheese and Onion Filling

Ingredient	Quantity
Aged cheddar cheese (grated)	225 g
Freshly blitzed breadcrumbs	225 g
Onion (grated)	1 medium
Double cream	4 tbsp
English mustard powder	1 heaped tsp
Cayenne pepper	1 level tsp
Chives (freshly chopped)	1 heaped tbsp
Parsley (freshly chopped)	1 heaped tbsp
Thyme (freshly chopped)	1 heaped tbsp
Salt	1 tsp, or to taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Herby Cheese and Onion Rolls

1. Make the Shortcrust Pastry

1. Combine the plain flour and salt in a large bowl.
2. Add the diced butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add 2–3 tablespoons of cold water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to ensure it stays tender.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheddar, breadcrumbs, and grated onion.
2. Add the double cream, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, chives, parsley, thyme, and salt.
3. Stir until the mixture is well combined and evenly seasoned.

3. Roll Out the Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the chilled pastry to approximately 5mm thickness.
3. Cut the pastry into rectangles or squares, depending on your desired roll size.

4. Fill and Shape the Rolls

1. Place a spoonful of the cheese and onion filling in the center of each pastry piece.
2. Fold the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges by pressing them gently with a fork.
3. Arrange the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking tray.

5. Glaze and Bake

1. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg yolk for a glossy, golden finish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Herby Cheese and Onion Rolls

1. Use High-Quality Cheese

Opt for aged cheddar to maximize the flavor of the filling.

2. Keep the Pastry Cold

Cold pastry is easier to handle and bakes up flakier. Chill the dough thoroughly before rolling it out.

3. Adjust the Spice

Reduce or increase the cayenne pepper to suit your taste. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.

4. Freeze for Later

Prepare the rolls and freeze them uncooked. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.