These incredibly soft and fluffy yogurt rolls are filled with fresh herbs and creamy cheese, creating the perfect combination of tangy bread and savory filling. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re ideal for busy weeknights or when you need fresh bread fast.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 120g plain yogurt (4.2 oz / ½ cup)
- 60ml warm water (2 fl oz / ¼ cup)
- 50ml sunflower oil (1.7 fl oz / 3 tbsp + 1 tsp)
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 350g all-purpose flour (12.3 oz / 2¾ cups)
- 25g butter, softened (0.9 oz / 2 tbsp)
For the Filling:
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives) to taste
- 150g soft cheese (5.3 oz) – cream cheese, ricotta, or feta
For Finishing:
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, warm water, sunflower oil, and egg white until smooth. Add the lemon juice, salt, and sugar, mixing well to combine all wet ingredients.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Add the baking powder to the flour and gradually incorporate into the wet mixture. Add the softened butter and knead until you have a smooth, soft dough. The dough should be pliable but not sticky.
Step 3: Rest the Dough
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and makes the dough easier to work with.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
Finely chop your chosen fresh herbs. If using feta cheese, crumble it; if using cream cheese or ricotta, mix it until smooth. Combine the herbs with the cheese.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a small circle, place a spoonful of the herb-cheese mixture in the center, then gather the edges and seal to form a ball. Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Final Preparation
Brush the tops of each roll with the egg yolk and oil mixture for a golden finish. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Serve
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is still soft and the herbs are fragrant.
Time and Serving Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Nutrition (Per Roll)
- Calories: 195
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 12% DV
Why These Rolls Are Perfect for Your Table
These yogurt-based rolls offer a lighter alternative to traditional yeast breads while maintaining incredible flavor and texture. The yogurt provides natural probiotics that support digestive health, while also creating the tender, moist crumb that makes these rolls so appealing. The tangy flavor from the yogurt and lemon juice perfectly complements the fresh herbs and creamy cheese filling.
The quick preparation time makes these ideal for last-minute entertaining or when you want fresh, homemade bread without the long rising times of traditional recipes. The combination of herbs and cheese provides protein and beneficial nutrients, while the sesame seeds add healthy fats and a delightful crunch. These rolls are also versatile – you can customize the herb blend based on what’s available in your garden or refrigerator.