As the sun peeks through the kitchen window, the warm aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, mingling beautifully with hints of herbs and cheesy goodness. I was inspired to create these Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns after a particularly delightful brunch with friends. With their irresistible softness and magical combination of flavors—think everything bagel seasoning and melted cheddar—these buns quickly became a go-to recipe in my home.
Perfect for elevating any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or an Easter celebration, they offer a whimsical twist on traditional rolls. Even if you’re weary of the same old fast food routine, these buns are simple enough to whip up yet packed with crowd-pleasing flavor. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress your loved ones with a delightful homemade treat that will turn any meal into a celebration!
Why are Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns so special?
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of savory cheddar, fresh herbs, and everything bagel seasoning creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Soft and Chewy: Each bite offers a delightful texture, perfectly soft on the outside and wonderfully chewy inside.
Easy to Make: This recipe is approachable for all skill levels, ensuring you can create something impressive without a culinary degree.
Perfect for Entertaining: Ideal for brunches or special gatherings, they’ll be the spotlight of your table, leaving guests wanting more.
Versatile Filling Options: Feel free to play around with different cheeses or additional ingredients, making each batch uniquely yours.
Get ready to fall in love with baking once again, because these rolls are the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue!
Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns Ingredients
• The key to achieving those delectable Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns lies in the right combination of fresh, quality ingredients.
For the Dough
- Warm Whole Milk – Provides moisture and activates yeast; ensure it’s warm, not hot.
- Honey – Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough; maple syrup can be used as a substitute.
- Eggs – Contributes to the dough structure and richness; use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
- Butter (melted) – Enhances flavor and texture; coconut oil can be a dairy-free substitute.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the dough structure; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
- Instant Dry Yeast – Leavens the buns; for a no-yeast option, replace with baking powder or soda.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt can be used instead.
For the Filling
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds savory flavor; swap for a non-dairy cheese or different cheese as desired.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves – Contributes herbal flavor; dried thyme can be used in half the amount.
- Everything Bagel Spice – Adds complex flavor; a homemade mix can substitute.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Provides a bit of heat; leave out for a milder flavor.
- Basil Pesto – Infuses the dough with rich flavor; homemade or store-bought is fine.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s embark on the wonderful journey of baking these delightful buns!
How to Make Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns
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Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine warm milk, honey, eggs, melted butter, 3 ½ cups flour, yeast, and salt. Mix with a dough hook for 4-5 minutes until fully incorporated. Adjust with extra flour if it feels sticky.
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Let it Rise: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough sit for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. You want it nice and puffy!
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Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar, fresh thyme, everything bagel spice, and crushed red pepper flakes. This will be the tasty heart of your buns!
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Shape the Buns: Roll out the dough into a rectangle, approximately 10×16 inches. Spread a layer of basil pesto, sprinkle the filling evenly, and then roll it up tightly. Cut into 12 rolls, place them in a baking dish, cover, and let rise again for 20-30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for later enjoyment.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden and the cheese is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Optional: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these delicious buns to your liking!
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Cheese Swap: Replace cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. Each cheese brings its own delightful character.
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Vegan Option: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and substitute dairy-free cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly and just as tasty.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil or parsley instead of thyme for a refreshing herbal note. The possibilities are endless with seasonal herbs!
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for added nutrition and flavor. These ingredients bring a burst of color and goodness.
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or crushed chili peppers to the filling for a spicy flair that makes every bite exciting.
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Nutty Texture: Mix in chopped walnuts or pine nuts within the filling for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts well with the cheese.
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Everything Bagel Boost: Sprinkle more everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for an extra punch of flavor. You can never go wrong with more goodness!
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Sweet & Savory Twist: Drizzle a little honey on top after baking for a sweet contrast to the cheesy herby flavor. It adds a surprising touch that guests will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe until shaping the rolls, then cover them tightly and refrigerate. This method allows the flavors to deepen and will keep them just as delicious. When ready to bake, let the rolls come to room temperature and rise for about 20-30 minutes before popping them into the oven. Another option is to freeze the shaped rolls for up to 3 days; just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before the final rise. Enjoy warmly baked buns that feel fresh even when prepped ahead!
Expert Tips for Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns
- Milk Temp Matters: Always ensure the milk is warm enough to activate the yeast, but not hot; hot milk can kill the yeast and ruin your buns.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to rise fully; rushing can lead to denser buns. A proper rise gives your Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns that fluffy texture.
- Refrigerate for Convenience: If you prefer to make these buns ahead of time, refrigerate them overnight after cutting before the final rise—this makes morning prep a breeze.
- Testing Freshness: Always double-check that your instant dry yeast is fresh; expired yeast will prevent your buns from rising properly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to incorporate different cheeses or herbs based on your taste and what you have on hand for exciting variations!
Storage Tips for Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns
Room Temperature: Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you need them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for about 5 days. Just remember to reheat before serving!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help bring back the delicious flavors of your Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns!
What to Serve with Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these scrumptious pairings that complement the luscious, cheesy goodness of the buns.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: The rich, tangy flavors of this classic soup perfectly balance the savory buns, creating a comforting combination.
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Garden Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to your meal, brightening up each bite.
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Honey Butter: This sweet and creamy spread enhances the herbaceous notes, making your buns even more irresistible and heavenly when served warm.
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Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche packed with vegetables and cheese complements the herby flavors, creating a delightful brunch experience that guests will adore.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables offers a satisfying earthiness and crunch, marrying well with the soft texture of the buns.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink cuts through the richness of the cheesy buns, making every bite feel light and enjoyable.
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Fruit Compote: Serve a side of sweet fruit compote to expand your flavor palette, balancing the savory notes of the buns with a hint of sweetness.
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Chili Con Carne: The hearty, spicy profile of chili pairs beautifully, creating an unforgettable feast that your family will love.
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Chocolate Mousse: For a delightful ending, a rich chocolate mousse provides a luscious dessert option that contrasts the savory buns beautifully, leaving everyone satisfied.
Indulge in these pairings to create a joyous, memorable dining experience filled with flavor and warmth!
Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns Recipe FAQs
What type of milk should I use for the dough?
Absolutely! Warm whole milk works best as it provides moisture and activates the yeast. Just make sure it’s warm, not hot, to ensure the yeast does its job without being killed off.
How should I store leftover Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft. For longer storage, refrigerate them for about 5 days, but remember to reheat before serving to restore their delightful texture.
Can I freeze these buns? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze these beautiful Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns! Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very often, the culprit is expired yeast. Always check the freshness of your instant dry yeast; it should be bubbly and active when mixed with warm water. If your dough isn’t rising, consider placing it in a warmer spot, as yeast prefers a cozy environment (around 75°F-80°F). Rushing the rise can lead to denser buns, so take your time and let them puff up properly!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, if you are catering to different dietary needs, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a vegan option, replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter. If allergies to dairy or gluten are a concern, opt for non-dairy cheese alternatives and gluten-free flour blends. Enjoy making these Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns accommodate your loved ones’ dietary needs!
Can I add different fillings to the buns?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with various cheese types such as mozzarella or pepper jack, or even add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a tasty twist. Seasonal herbs can also elevate the flavor, allowing you to personalize each batch to your liking!
Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns for Irresistible Brunch Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine warm milk, honey, eggs, melted butter, flour, yeast, and salt. Mix for 4-5 minutes until fully incorporated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough sit for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar, fresh thyme, everything bagel spice, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread basil pesto, sprinkle filling, and roll tightly. Cut into 12 rolls.
- Place rolls in a baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 20-30 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden and cheese is bubbling.