High Protein Cheese and Bacon Rolls

These High Protein Cheese and Bacon Rolls are a healthier take on the classic bakery favorite from Baker’s Delight. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, these rolls are high in protein, lower in fat and calories, and don’t require any yeast! They are soft, cheesy, and fluffy, making them a great option for meal prep, healthy snacks, or a light breakfast.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

  • 280g Self-raising flour

  • 270g Plain Greek yogurt (low-fat, high-protein)

  • 2.5 tsp Baking powder

  • Pinch of salt

  • 60g Bacon (pre-cooked and chopped)

  • 60g Light shredded cheese (reduced-fat mozzarella or tasty cheese)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F), fan-forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper.

  2. Prepare the Dough

    • In a large bowl, mix the self-raising flour, baking powder (if using), and a pinch of salt.

    • Add the Greek yogurt and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour.

    • Gently knead the dough until smooth.

  3. Shape the Rolls

    • Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and shape them into round rolls.

    • Place the rolls on the prepared tray. Top each roll with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, followed by the cooked bacon, and another sprinkle of cheese.

  4. Bake the Rolls

    • Bake the rolls for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

    • Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrients

  • Calories: 235 kcal per roll

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Protein: 16g

  • Fat: 3g

  • Saturated Fat: 1g

  • Sodium: 350mg

  • Sugar: 1.5g

The Nutritional Benefits of High Protein Rolls

One of the key highlights of these High Protein Cheese and Bacon Rolls is their impressive protein content. Each roll contains 16g of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Protein is also known for its ability to keep you feeling fuller for longer, which makes these rolls an excellent option for a post-workout snack or a fulfilling breakfast. The protein is primarily sourced from the Greek yogurt and cheese, both of which contribute not only protein but also a creamy texture and rich flavor. The higher protein content makes these rolls a more filling and satisfying option compared to traditional rolls, which are often high in simple carbohydrates and low in protein.

Additionally, these rolls are made with low-fat ingredients, such as reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt, which helps to keep the fat and calorie count low. For anyone aiming to manage their fat intake while still enjoying indulgent flavors, these rolls strike the perfect balance. The bacon adds a savory punch, but its usage is controlled to provide flavor without overwhelming the rolls with excess fat. The result is a tasty, lighter alternative to the calorie-dense, fatty rolls you might find at a bakery or café.

Self-Raising Flour: A Simple Yet Effective Choice

This recipe calls for self-raising flour, a key ingredient that simplifies the process by eliminating the need for yeast. Self-raising flour contains a leavening agent, typically baking powder, which helps the dough rise without any additional effort or wait time. This is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy fresh, fluffy rolls without the need to proof dough or wait for yeast to activate. Self-raising flour provides the necessary structure and lightness to the rolls, ensuring they maintain a soft, airy texture while still holding together well after baking.

The beauty of using self-raising flour is in its simplicity. There’s no need to worry about measuring and activating yeast, making this recipe accessible to anyone, regardless of baking experience. For those looking to cut down on prep time, self-raising flour offers a convenient and efficient solution, allowing you to have freshly baked rolls ready in no time.

Greek Yogurt: A Protein-Rich Ingredient

Greek yogurt plays a crucial role in this recipe, not only adding a creamy texture but also contributing a significant amount of protein to each roll. Greek yogurt is known for being thick and rich, which enhances the overall mouthfeel of the rolls while keeping them moist. Unlike regular yogurt, Greek yogurt is strained to remove excess liquid, concentrating the protein and giving it a denser, more substantial texture.

The addition of Greek yogurt helps to bind the dough together, replacing the need for fats or oils, while also adding a tangy flavor that complements the savory bacon and cheese. Moreover, Greek yogurt is a great source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. By using Greek yogurt in this recipe, you’re not only increasing the protein content but also incorporating a healthy ingredient that supports digestion and overall wellness.

Baking Powder: The Leavening Agent

While self-raising flour already contains a leavening agent, baking powder is added in this recipe to ensure the rolls rise properly and achieve that soft, fluffy texture. Baking powder is a chemical leavening agent that reacts when it combines with the moisture in the dough, releasing carbon dioxide gas that causes the dough to expand. This reaction is essential for creating a light and airy texture in the rolls, ensuring they are not dense or heavy.

By using baking powder in conjunction with self-raising flour, the dough rises quickly and evenly, giving the rolls their desirable consistency without requiring time-consuming fermentation. The addition of baking powder also helps to enhance the texture of the rolls, making them the perfect vehicle for the melty cheese and savory bacon topping.

Bacon: A Savory Flavor Addition

Bacon is a key ingredient in these rolls, adding a deliciously savory flavor that complements the creamy cheese and tangy yogurt. The crispy, salty bacon elevates the taste of the rolls, creating a satisfying balance of flavors. Bacon is often seen as a guilty indulgence in many dishes, but in this recipe, it’s used sparingly, ensuring that the rolls are flavorful without being overly greasy or high in fat.

For this recipe, pre-cooked bacon is recommended to save time and ensure that the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the rolls. The bacon not only adds flavor but also provides a slight crunch, enhancing the texture of the rolls. The smoky, salty notes of the bacon pair wonderfully with the mild flavor of the cheese and the lightness of the Greek yogurt, making each bite a perfect combination of savory and satisfying.

Light Shredded Cheese: The Perfect Melt

To complement the bacon, light shredded cheese is sprinkled on top of each roll before baking. Reduced-fat mozzarella or tasty cheese works perfectly in this recipe, providing the melty, cheesy goodness that makes these rolls so irresistible. The cheese adds richness and flavor, melting into the dough and blending with the bacon for a savory, satisfying bite. Using light cheese helps to keep the rolls lower in fat, without compromising on taste or texture.

The cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to the soft, gooey texture of the rolls. As the cheese melts during baking, it forms a beautiful golden crust on top of the rolls, making them even more appealing both in flavor and appearance. The light cheese ensures that these rolls remain healthier than traditional bakery rolls while still offering the indulgent, cheesy experience we all love.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Snacks

One of the great advantages of these High Protein Cheese and Bacon Rolls is how well they lend themselves to meal prep. Whether you’re looking to prepare a batch of rolls for the week ahead or need a quick snack to take on the go, these rolls are a convenient and portable option. They can be baked in advance and stored in the refrigerator, where they stay fresh for several days.

These rolls are ideal for breakfast, as they provide a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats to fuel your day. They also work well as a savory snack or a light lunch, especially when paired with a side salad or some fresh vegetables. If you’re looking to satisfy your cravings for something cheesy and savory, but don’t want to compromise on nutrition, these rolls offer the perfect solution.

Baking and Serving the Rolls

Baking these High Protein Cheese and Bacon Rolls is simple and quick. After mixing the dough, it’s divided into six equal pieces, shaped into rolls, and baked for 20-22 minutes. The result is golden-brown rolls that are soft on the inside with a slightly crisp top. Allowing the rolls to cool slightly before serving ensures that they hold their shape and are easy to enjoy. The combination of the fluffy texture, savory bacon, and melted cheese makes these rolls incredibly satisfying.

For a more substantial meal, these rolls can be served with a side of greens or a low-calorie dipping sauce. They can also be enjoyed as a snack or even a post-workout meal due to their high protein content. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, these rolls remain flavorful and satisfying, making them a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

Conclusion

High Protein Cheese and Bacon Rolls are the perfect healthy, savory treat for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, indulgent snack without compromising their nutritional goals. With their high protein content, lower fat, and simple ingredients, these rolls are a great option for meal prep, healthy snacks, or a light breakfast. The use of Greek yogurt and light cheese ensures that these rolls are both tasty and nutritious, while the addition of bacon adds that satisfying savory element. The simple preparation process, combined with the satisfying results, makes these rolls an easy and convenient option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier take on a classic favorite. Whether you’re looking to stay on track with your fitness goals or just enjoy a delicious snack, these High Protein Cheese and Bacon Rolls are a great choice that you can feel good about.

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