Pesto Mozzarella Rolls: 1 Amazing Savory Treat

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Pesto Mozzarella Rolls have become my absolute favorite weekend baking project, and I can’t wait for you to try them! There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of warm, yeasty dough infused with vibrant basil pesto and gooey, melted mozzarella cheese filling the kitchen. My grandmother used to make a similar bread when I was a kid, and the aroma alone instantly transports me back to those cozy afternoons. This easy pesto mozzarella rolls recipe is surprisingly simple, even for beginners, and results in the most delightful pesto mozzarella bread rolls you’ve ever tasted. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

The incredible taste of fresh basil pesto combined with melty mozzarella is pure bliss.
These cheesy pesto mozzarella rolls are surprisingly quick to make, perfect for a weeknight treat.
They offer a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks, using wholesome ingredients.
They are incredibly budget-friendly, especially when you make the pesto from scratch.
The whole family will adore these soft, flavorful rolls – they’re a guaranteed hit!
Enjoy the satisfying experience of baking these cheesy pesto mozzarella rolls from scratch.
They make a delightful and savory pesto mozzarella appetizer rolls.

Ingredients for Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these amazing pesto mozzarella rolls. For the dough, you’ll need 1 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C), which helps activate the yeast. I always use 2 teaspoons active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon caster sugar to get a good, frothy start. Then, about 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt are mixed in for flavor and texture. You’ll need 3-4 cups all-purpose flour to create a soft, pliable dough.

For the vibrant pesto, which gives these rolls their signature flavor, you’ll need 2 cups fresh basil leaves, ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, and 2 cloves garlic. A little 1 tablespoon lemon juice adds brightness, and of course, salt and pepper to taste. When it comes to the filling, I love using 1-2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese for that perfect melty pull. These ingredients come together for truly delicious garlic pesto mozzarella rolls!

How to Make Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

Let’s get these delicious pesto mozzarella rolls baking! First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature is perfect for getting a golden crust while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. You’ll want to lightly grease your baking pan so the rolls don’t stick.

Step 1: In a small bowl, gently warm your milk – it should be lukewarm, not hot, around 110°F (43°C). Stir in the 2 teaspoons active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon caster sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets nice and frothy. This tells you the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: In a larger bowl, combine the frothy yeast mixture with the 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt. Gradually add about 3 cups of the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, bouncing back slightly when you poke it. Add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, if it’s too sticky. This kneading is crucial for achieving a light texture in your pesto mozzarella dough rolls.
Step 3: Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place the kneaded dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The dough should look puffy and airy.
Step 4: While the dough is rising, prepare your pesto. In a food processor or blender, combine the 2 cups fresh basil leaves, ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Pulse until you have a smooth, vibrant green pesto. Chill it in the refrigerator until ready to use. This homemade pesto is what makes these savory pesto mozzarella rolls so special.
Step 5: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 12×9 inches. Spread the chilled pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the 1-2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto. Starting from one of the longer sides, roll the dough up tightly, like a jelly roll. Slice the log into 9 equal pieces to create your beautiful mozzarella pesto pinwheels.
Step 6: Arrange the sliced rolls cut-side up in your prepared baking pan. They should be snug but not squished. Cover the pan again and let the rolls rise for another 45-60 minutes, or until they look puffed up and have nearly doubled in size again. This second rise is key to the fluffy texture.
Step 7: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. The aroma of baking bread and pesto will fill your home as you learn how to make pesto mozzarella rolls that are truly irresistible.
Step 8: Let the baked rolls cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. Serving them warm is highly recommended for the ultimate gooey cheese experience! Enjoying these easy pesto mozzarella rolls recipe treats fresh from the oven is the best part of learning how to make pesto mozzarella rolls.

Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

To ensure your pesto mozzarella rolls turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tricks I’ve picked up. Using high-quality, fresh basil for your pesto makes a huge difference in flavor. Also, make sure your yeast is active; if it doesn’t foam, your dough won’t rise properly. Grating your own mozzarella cheese from a block will give you that superior meltiness that makes these rolls so irresistible.

Don’t skip the second rise for the rolls; it’s essential for that light, airy texture.
Ensure your pesto is chilled before spreading it on the dough to prevent melting the cheese too soon.
When slicing the rolled dough, a sharp serrated knife works best for clean cuts, creating beautiful mozzarella pesto pinwheels.

What’s the secret to perfect Pesto Mozzarella Rolls?

The secret is in the balance: a homemade, vibrant pesto and good quality, melty mozzarella cheese. Ensuring the dough is kneaded properly and gets a good rise is also key for that perfect, fluffy texture in your pesto mozzarella breadsticks.

Can I make Pesto Mozzarella Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prep the dough and assemble the rolls ahead of time! Once sliced, place them in your baking pan, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, and you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. For more baking tips, check out these baking tips.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pesto Mozzarella Rolls?

A common mistake is using hot milk, which kills the yeast. Always use lukewarm milk. Also, be careful not to over-knead the dough, as this can make the rolls tough. Finally, don’t over-bake; watch for that golden-brown color, as they continue to cook slightly after coming out of the oven. Learn more about yeast activation.

Best Ways to Serve Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

These delightful pesto mozzarella rolls are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with other dishes. They make an absolutely stunning pesto mozzarella appetizer rolls, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. Imagine serving them alongside a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette; the bright flavors complement the rich pesto and cheese beautifully. For a more substantial meal, these rolls are a wonderful accompaniment to hearty soups like tomato bisque or a creamy chicken noodle. Their savory, cheesy goodness makes them a versatile addition to any meal or a star on their own. You can find more appetizer ideas here.

Nutrition Facts for Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

When you’re enjoying these delicious pesto mozzarella rolls, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. Each serving of these flavorful baked pesto mozzarella rolls offers a satisfying blend of taste and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per roll:

Calories: 180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 220 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your pesto mozzarella snack rolls. For more information on healthy eating, explore our resources.

How to Store and Reheat Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

Once these delicious pesto mozzarella rolls are baked to perfection, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them tasting their best. Always let the rolls cool completely in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before attempting to move them. This helps them firm up slightly. For storing leftovers, an airtight container is your best friend. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, making them a convenient pesto mozzarella comfort food option for quick snacks or side dishes.

If you find yourself with more delicious rolls than you can eat within a few days, freezing is an excellent option. Once completely cooled, you can freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the refrigerator overnight before placing them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. This method revives their fresh-baked texture beautifully. Learn about proper food storage techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Mozzarella Rolls

What are pesto mozzarella rolls?

Pesto mozzarella rolls are soft, fluffy yeasted bread rolls filled with a vibrant basil pesto and gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. They’re a delightful savory bread that’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or a satisfying snack. Think of them as little pockets of Italian-inspired deliciousness!

Can I use store-bought pesto for these rolls?

Absolutely! While homemade pesto has a special freshness, using a good quality store-bought pesto is a fantastic shortcut. It makes these pesto mozzarella snack rolls even quicker to assemble. Just ensure it’s a flavorful pesto that you enjoy.

How do I get the best cheesy pull from the mozzarella?

For the ultimate gooey cheese experience in your cheesy pesto mozzarella rolls, I highly recommend shredding your mozzarella from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as smoothly and stringy. Using fresh, block mozzarella will give you those amazing, stretchy cheese pulls. For more tips on cheese, check out this guide to different types of cheese.

Are these rolls considered a healthy option?

These pesto mozzarella rolls offer a good balance of carbohydrates from the dough and healthy fats from the olive oil and basil. While they contain cheese, they are made with whole ingredients and are a much healthier alternative to many processed snacks. You can also boost their health factor by adding finely chopped spinach to the pesto, creating delicious spinach pesto mozzarella rolls.

Variations of Pesto Mozzarella Rolls You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic pesto mozzarella rolls, you’ll love experimenting with these fun variations! For a boost of extra veggies and a slightly different flavor profile, try making spinach pesto mozzarella rolls by adding a handful of fresh spinach to your pesto mixture. You can also swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses like provolone or Gruyère for a nutty twist. If you’re looking for a quicker baking method, consider using refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent roll dough to create a faster, simplified version of these pesto mozzarella crescent rolls. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or the mozzarella filling.