Jamaican Cheese Roll

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 1 cup (120g) grated cheddar cheese 1 cup (120g) grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup (60g) grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup (60g) cream cheese 1/4 cup (60g) cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped scallions 2 tablespoons finely chopped scallions
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional) 1/4 teaspoon Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the cold water to the mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a few minutes until smooth.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. 6.
   In a separate bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, scallions, dried thyme, garlic powder, black pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Take one portion of the dough and roll it out into a thin rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
9. 9.
   Spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. 10.
    Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, sealing the edges.
11. 11.
    Repeat the process with the remaining dough portions and cheese mixture.
12. 12.
    Place the rolls onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
13. 13.
    Brush the rolls with the beaten egg wash to give them a golden color.
14. 14.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy.
15. 15.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheddar cheese — Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese — Opt for low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
• Cream cheese — Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Adjust the amount according to your spice preference. Be cautious as it can be very hot.
• Egg wash — For a glossy finish, beat the egg with a splash of milk or water before brushing it onto the rolls.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can prepare the dough and cheese filling in advance and assemble the rolls just before baking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor combination.
• Serve the Cheese Rolls warm for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add more Scotch bonnet pepper or include a dash of hot sauce in the cheese filling.
• These rolls can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a part of a brunch spread.

Serving advice

Serve the Jamaican Cheese Rolls as a delicious snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a tangy dipping sauce, such as a spicy mango chutney or a zesty tomato salsa.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Cheese Rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, to add a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch.