Cream Cheese and Chive Rolls

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These Cream Cheese and Chive Rolls are the perfect blend of savory, fluffy, and flavorful! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy addition to a family meal, these rolls are irresistibly soft with a creamy twist that makes them stand out from the ordinary.

Fluffy Dinner Rolls with a Savory Twist

When I think of dinner rolls, I want them to be light, buttery, and full of flavor. These cream cheese and chive rolls deliver all that and more! The cream cheese in the dough keeps them extra tender, while the chives add just the right hint of herby freshness.

With every bite, you’ll enjoy the balance of pillowy texture and a deliciously savory flavor. Plus, they’re as stunning as they are tasty—perfect to serve fresh out of the oven for any occasion!

Let’s dive into how to make these rolls so they come out soft, golden, and utterly delicious every time.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese and Chive Rolls

To make these soft and flavorful rolls, you’ll need a combination of basic pantry staples and a few ingredients that add a savory twist. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour – The foundation for these rolls, giving them the perfect structure and fluffiness.
• Instant Yeast – Ensures your rolls rise quickly and evenly.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
• Cream Cheese (Room Temperature) – The star ingredient, keeping the rolls moist and tender with a subtle creamy flavor.
• Warm Milk – Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
• Unsalted Butter – Used in the dough and brushed on top for that perfect golden finish.
• Egg – Helps bind the dough and adds to the fluffy texture.
• Fresh Chives (Finely Chopped) – Adds a pop of freshness and herby flavor to every bite.
• Sesame Seeds or Everything Bagel Seasoning (Optional) – For a decorative and flavorful topping.

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How to Make Cream Cheese and Chive Rolls

Making these rolls is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to achieve soft, golden perfection:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast on top, let it sit for 5 minutes, and stir until foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add in the yeast mixture, softened cream cheese, egg, and melted butter. Knead the mixture until a smooth and elastic dough forms.

Step 3: Add the Chives

Once the dough is smooth, fold in the chopped chives. This ensures every roll has a hint of savory freshness.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12–16 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top if desired. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Brush the freshly baked rolls with more butter for an extra glossy finish. Serve them warm and enjoy their pillowy texture and savory flavor!

Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese and Chive Rolls

Achieving soft, fluffy rolls with just the right amount of flavor is all about timing and technique. Here’s how to get the best results every time:

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How Long to Bake Cream Cheese and Chive Rolls

Baking time depends on the size of your rolls and the oven’s consistency. Follow these guidelines:

• Smaller Rolls (16 rolls) – Bake for 15–18 minutes.
• Larger Rolls (12 rolls) – Bake for 18–22 minutes.

Keep an eye on the rolls after the 15-minute mark. They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. For extra precision, use a thermometer—the internal temperature should read 190°F (88°C).

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Storing Leftovers

These rolls store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option!

• In the Refrigerator – Store rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to restore softness.
• In the Freezer – Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven.

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Reheating Tips

To maintain the rolls’ soft texture, sprinkle them lightly with water and cover with foil before reheating in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes.

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Cooking Tips for the Best Rolls

1. Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure the cream cheese, butter, and egg are at room temperature. This helps the dough come together smoothly.
2. Don’t Skip the Second Rise – This step ensures light, airy rolls. Rushing this process can lead to dense dough.
3. Grease Your Hands – When working with the sticky dough, lightly grease your hands with butter or oil to make shaping easier.
4. Experiment with Toppings – While sesame seeds and everything bagel seasoning are delicious, you can also sprinkle shredded cheese or garlic powder for variety.

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Letting the rolls rest for 10 minutes after baking is key. This step helps the flavors settle and the texture remain soft and tender. Trust me, these tips will make your rolls irresistible!

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