There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm, melty goodness of cheese, and when I first tried New Zealand Cheese Rolls, I was instantly transported to a cozy kitchen filled with delightful aromas. These delectable bites, with their crispy exterior and gooey cheese center, may sound indulgent, but they’re surprisingly simple to make.
After a long week of fast food and bland meals, I yearned for a dish that would bring joy to my taste buds without complicated prep. That’s when I discovered the magic of these rolls—perfectly crunchy on the outside and filled with a rich cheese sauce, they quickly became a crowd favorite at gatherings and cozy dinners alike. You might be surprised at how quickly your friends and family will swoon over these treats!
Join me as I guide you through this easy recipe that pairs creamy Edam cheese with a touch of mustard and sautéed onions, all wrapped in soft white bread. You’ll soon find that these little rolls are not just a snack but a delightful escape from the ordinary!
Why Will You Love New Zealand Cheese Rolls?
Irresistible Comfort: These New Zealand Cheese Rolls bring a warm, cheesy embrace that’s perfect for any occasion.
Easily Customizable: Swap out cheeses or add spices to suit your taste!
Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of bake time, you’ll have these tasty bites on the table in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Friends, family, and guests alike will be clamoring for seconds—these rolls disappear fast!
Fun to Make: Involve the kids in rolling the bread; it’s a delightful family activity that results in delicious snacks!
Get ready to impress everyone with this simple, satisfying dish that delivers comfort in every bite.
New Zealand Cheese Rolls Ingredients
For the Rolls
• 1 loaf white sandwich bread – This soft bread serves as the perfect vessel to cradle the cheesy goodness.
• 3/4 cup Edam cheese, grated – Choose a good quality cheese for a rich, creamy filling that melts beautifully.
• 3/4 cup Edam cheese, grated – Adding extra grated cheese gives these rolls a delightful gooey texture.
For the Cheese Sauce
• 1/4 cup butter – Melting this down starts the base for your creamy cheese sauce.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – Sautéed onions add a touch of sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour – This thickens your cheese sauce, giving it that luscious consistency.
• 1 cup milk – Whole milk works best for a rich and velvety sauce; feel free to use any milk you have.
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder – A subtle hint of mustard elevates the cheese flavor without overpowering it.
• Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust these to your taste.
With this list of New Zealand Cheese Rolls ingredients, get ready to indulge in a comforting treat that brings everything delicious straight from your kitchen!
How to Make New Zealand Cheese Rolls
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). This is a crucial step for getting that perfect, crispy exterior on the rolls!
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Sauté the onions by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until they become translucent and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
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Whisk in the flour. Stir continuously while adding the milk gradually to avoid lumps until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce. Look for a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
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Stir in the mustard powder and grated Edam cheese. Allow the cheese to melt completely while adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be rich and cheesy!
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Flatten the bread slices using a rolling pin to give them a nice base for rolling. This is where the fun begins!
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Spread some of the cheese sauce onto each flattened slice of bread. Sprinkle with additional grated cheese, then roll each slice tightly, sealing in that delicious filling.
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Arrange the rolls seam side down on a baking sheet. Brush them with melted butter for an extra golden touch, then bake for 15 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best New Zealand Cheese Rolls
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Choose Fresh Bread: Use fresh white sandwich bread for the best texture; stale bread will not roll as easily and may result in cracks.
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Heat the Sauce: When melting the cheese into the sauce, keep the heat low to avoid separating the cheese, ensuring a smooth and creamy filling.
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Tight Rolls: Make sure to roll the bread tightly with the cheese sauce; loose rolls may unravel during baking and won’t hold their shape.
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Customize Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella to enhance the flavor of your New Zealand Cheese Rolls.
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Oven Check: Keep an eye on them in the oven; baking times can vary depending on your oven, and you want them golden, not burnt!
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Serve Warm: These cheese rolls taste best when served hot and fresh out of the oven, so time your serving for optimum taste!
What to Serve with New Zealand Cheese Rolls?
Imagine cozying up with a plate of warm, cheesy goodness that invites comforting flavors to your table—let’s complete that meal!
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese rolls.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley: The earthy flavors of roasted vegetables complement the cheese beautifully, adding depth and color to your meal.
- Classic Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup pairs perfectly, creating a nostalgic flavor combination that enhances the cheese’s creaminess.
- Garlic Bread: Adding a side of garlic bread offers a crunchy, aromatic element that echoes the savory notes of the cheese rolls.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang from a homemade coleslaw balances the rolls’ richness, giving your palate a delightful variation in texture.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: For a refreshing beverage, sparkling apple cider provides a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy bites.
- Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, a small pot of warm chocolate fondue creates a fun, interactive ending to your meal, leaving everyone smiling!
- Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea can cleanse the palate and round off the comforting experience, perfect for a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Each of these pairings enhances the melt-in-your-mouth experience of New Zealand Cheese Rolls, making every bite even more delightful.
How to Store and Freeze New Zealand Cheese Rolls
Room Temperature: Enjoy your cheese rolls fresh out of the oven for the best taste. If you have leftovers, keep them in a cool, dry place for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any remaining New Zealand Cheese Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen cheese rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Make Ahead Options
These New Zealand Cheese Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheese sauce up to 3 days in advance by cooking and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain its creamy texture. Additionally, the rolls can be assembled (without baking) and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply preheat your oven, brush with melted butter, and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown. This way, you can indulge in a delightful homemade treat on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
Variations & Substitutions for New Zealand Cheese Rolls
Feel free to get creative and make these cheese rolls your own with these fun ideas!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a delightful heat that will bring new excitement to each bite.
Elevate your rolls with a little zing; this variation is perfect for those who love a little spice. -
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives into the cheese sauce for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall flavor experience.
Herbs can transform your rolls into a garden-fresh delight, making each morsel feel special and vibrant. -
Gluten-Free: Swap out the white sandwich bread for gluten-free slices or use gluten-free flour for the cheese sauce to keep this dish celiac-friendly.
With a few simple swaps, those with dietary restrictions can join in on the fun without missing out on deliciousness! -
Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.
Imagine the depth of flavor you can achieve by simply switching cheeses! Your cheese rolls will be anything but dull. -
Veggie Packed: Add finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini into the cheese sauce for a nutritious twist that adds color and flavor.
Sneak in some extra veggies and enjoy the satisfaction of making these rolls not just delicious but wholesome too! -
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke into the cheese sauce for a subtle smokiness that will tantalize your taste buds.
Such a simple addition can take your rolls from ordinary to extraordinary, infusing them with a warm, rustic charm. -
Sweet Surprise: Drizzle with honey or add a touch of maple syrup to the cheese sauce for a sweet-and-savory combo that will surprise and delight.
For those adventurous palates, this twist gives a lovely balance that will surely be a hit at your table!
With these variations, your New Zealand Cheese Rolls can take on new personalities while still delivering that cozy, cheesy goodness you love!
New Zealand Cheese Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of bread works best for New Zealand Cheese Rolls?
Absolutely! Using fresh white sandwich bread is ideal as it provides the perfect softness and structure for rolling. Avoid stale bread, as it can crack and won’t hold the cheese filling well.
How should I store leftover New Zealand Cheese Rolls?
You can store any leftover cheese rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I freeze New Zealand Cheese Rolls?
Yes! To freeze, tightly wrap the cheese rolls first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes.
What can I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If you find that your cheese sauce has thickened more than you’d like, don’t worry! Gradually whisk in a splash more milk over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Be sure to stir continuously to maintain the smooth texture of the sauce.
Are there any dietary considerations for New Zealand Cheese Rolls?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can try using plant-based cheese alternatives. For gluten-free options, gluten-free bread works well as a substitute for the sandwich bread. Always check the labels to ensure compatibility with dietary restrictions.
How can I make my New Zealand Cheese Rolls spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can easily customize the cheese filling! Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce. This will give your cheese rolls a delightful kick that balances perfectly with the creamy cheese!
Melt-in-Your-Mouth New Zealand Cheese Rolls You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Sauté the onions by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until they become translucent and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk in the flour. Stir continuously while adding the milk gradually to avoid lumps until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
- Stir in the mustard powder and grated Edam cheese. Allow the cheese to melt completely while adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Flatten the bread slices using a rolling pin.
- Spread some of the cheese sauce onto each flattened slice of bread. Sprinkle with additional grated cheese, then roll each slice tightly.
- Arrange the rolls seam side down on a baking sheet. Brush them with melted butter for an extra golden touch, then bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.