Name: Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns.
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm whole milk; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 large eggs (beaten); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet instant dry yeast ((2 1/4 teaspoons)); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves ((or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)); 2 tablespoons everything bagel spice; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup basil pesto ((homemade or store-bought))

There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked bread, and when you add savory cheese and aromatic herbs to the mix, it transforms into a treat that’s hard to resist. These Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns are soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a cozy brunch or an impressive addition to your dinner table, these buns are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With a delightful swirl of cheddar cheese, fresh thyme, and everything bagel spice, they are as delicious as they are easy to make.

Why Cooks Rave About It

These Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns are not just any ordinary buns. They are the perfect blend of flavor and texture, making them a favorite among food lovers and home bakers alike. The combination of warm, gooey cheddar and the aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, they are versatile enough to be served as a side dish, a snack, or even a light meal. Home cooks rave about how simple and rewarding the process is, leading to a batch of buns that can easily impress family and friends.

What’s in the Bowl

To create these delectable Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup warm whole milk
1 tablespoon honey
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons butter, melted
3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant dry yeast (see notes for no yeast option)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
2 tablespoons everything bagel spice
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought

Appliances & Accessories

To make these Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns, you will need a few essential tools:

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.
Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough to create the perfect swirl.
Baking Sheet: To bake your buns in the oven.
Kitchen Towel: To cover the dough as it rises.
Oven: The essential tool for baking the buns to golden perfection.

Method: Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the warm whole milk and honey, stirring until the honey is dissolved. Sprinkle the instant dry yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Once the yeast is activated, add the beaten eggs and melted butter to the bowl. Mix well. Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour and the kosher salt, stirring until a soft dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time, until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, fresh thyme, everything bagel spice, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size.

Step 6: Add the Pesto

Spread the basil pesto evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 7: Sprinkle the Filling

Sprinkle the cheddar cheese mixture evenly over the pesto-covered dough.

Step 8: Roll and Cut

Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Place the sliced buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 10: Bake the Buns

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the buns have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to adapt this recipe for vegan or vegetarian diets, consider the following swaps:

Milk: Use almond milk or any plant-based milk instead of whole milk.
Butter: Replace with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or a store-bought egg replacer.
Cheese: Opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.

Author’s Commentary

These Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors from the pesto and herbs, combined with the golden cheese, create an irresistible visual appeal. One of my favorite things about this recipe is its flexibility; you can easily adjust the herbs and spices based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, these buns are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled buns in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Your Top Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works well in this recipe. The buns will still be soft and fluffy, but using bread flour can yield a slightly chewier texture.

What if I don’t have instant dry yeast?

You can substitute active dry yeast instead. Just activate it in the warm milk with honey for 5-10 minutes before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I add other herbs to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley for a unique flavor profile.

How can I make the recipe spicier?

If you love heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños to the cheese filling for an extra kick.

That’s a Wrap

Get ready to indulge in these delightful Herby Everything Cheddar Swirl Buns. They are more than just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. Whether served warm out of the oven or as part of a picnic spread, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating these scrumptious buns. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your taste buds will thank you!