Cheesymite Scrolls are a quintessential Australian treat, blending the iconic flavors of Vegemite and melted cheese into soft, pillowy bread. Each bite reveals layers of buttery, salty goodness, complemented by the rich sharpness of Colby cheese. These scrolls are perfect for lunch, an afternoon snack, or even breakfast for those who love a savory start to the day.
Homemade Cheesymite Scrolls are easy to make and far more affordable than store-bought versions. Plus, the freshness and flavor of using real butter and extra cheese take these scrolls to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re an Aussie at heart or just curious to try something new, these scrolls won’t disappoint!
Full Recipe:
- 4 cups bread flour (or plain/all-purpose flour)
- 3 tsp instant yeast (rapid-rise yeast)
- 2 tsp white sugar
- 1 1/4 tsp cooking salt (kosher salt)
- 1 1/2 cups + 2 tbsp warm milk (full or low fat)
- 50g salted butter (softened)
- 3 tbsp Vegemite
- 5 cups Colby cheese (freshly shredded, or use cheddar/Monterey Jack)
Directions:
- Mix flour, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Add warm milk and mix on low speed until dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
- Let dough rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch dough to deflate, roll it out into a 48 x 28 cm rectangle.
- Spread softened butter and Vegemite over the dough. Sprinkle 3 cups of cheese evenly.
- Roll the dough into a log and cut into 12 pieces. Place them in a greased and lined pan.
- Let rise for 30 minutes until scrolls expand by 30%.
- Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan-forced). Top scrolls with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then rotate the pan and bake for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Rest for 10 minutes before serving warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 437 kcal per scroll | Servings: 12 scrolls
Cheesymite Scrolls: A Quintessential Aussie Favorite
When it comes to beloved Australian treats, Cheesymite Scrolls are high on the list. Combining the iconic flavor of Vegemite with the creamy richness of melted cheese, all nestled in a soft, pillowy bread, these scrolls offer a uniquely Australian flavor experience. Whether you grew up in Australia or are simply curious to explore their culinary traditions, these scrolls provide a wonderful way to introduce yourself to one of the country’s most iconic snacks. While they’re readily available in bakeries and grocery stores across Australia, making them at home allows you to enjoy a fresher, tastier, and more customizable version of this Aussie classic.
What Makes Cheesymite Scrolls So Special?
At first glance, Cheesymite Scrolls might seem like just another variation of a cheese roll, but there’s a lot more to them than meets the eye. For many Australians, they’re deeply nostalgic—evoking memories of school lunchboxes, quick snacks during shopping trips, and simple pleasures enjoyed on a lazy weekend morning.
Here’s what sets Cheesymite Scrolls apart from other baked treats:
- Vegemite: The Star Ingredient
Vegemite is the defining flavor in Cheesymite Scrolls. Known for its bold, salty, and savory taste, Vegemite is an acquired taste for some, but for Australians, it’s a household staple. Made from yeast extract, it’s packed with umami flavors that balance beautifully with the creamy cheese in the scrolls. When spread sparingly over the dough, Vegemite transforms into something magical as it bakes, deepening in flavor and melding with the cheese to create a deliciously savory filling. - The Bread: Soft and Pillowy
The dough used for Cheesymite Scrolls is essential to the overall texture and eating experience. Unlike denser bread rolls, the dough here is soft and fluffy, perfect for tearing apart and savoring with each bite. The secret lies in using bread flour, which has a higher protein content, resulting in a better, chewier texture. The dough also benefits from being enriched with milk, adding softness and tenderness that complements the richness of the Vegemite and cheese filling. - Customizable Cheeses
While the original Cheesymite Scrolls use Colby cheese, you can experiment with other melting cheeses to suit your taste. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and even a blend of cheeses can be used to add different flavor profiles. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged varieties, creating that luscious, gooey texture that makes these scrolls irresistible. Whether you prefer a mild or sharp cheese, it’s the gooey, melted layer that gives the scrolls their cheesy satisfaction. - A Quick, Satisfying Snack
Cheesymite Scrolls are perfect as an on-the-go snack or a quick meal. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and they’re a popular choice for a lunchbox treat. Whether you’re in need of a snack while shopping or something to tide you over between meals, these scrolls are satisfying and filling. They’re also great for kids—Vegemite is often introduced early in Australian households, making this a family-friendly recipe that appeals to both children and adults alike.
Benefits of Making Cheesymite Scrolls at Home
While buying Cheesymite Scrolls from a bakery or grocery store is convenient, making them at home offers several advantages. When you bake these scrolls from scratch, you get to control the ingredients and the overall quality of the finished product.
Here are some benefits of homemade Cheesymite Scrolls:
- Cost-Effective
Store-bought Cheesymite Scrolls can be expensive. At some bakeries, you could pay upwards of $4.50 per scroll. By making them at home, you can create a dozen scrolls for a fraction of the cost. On average, it costs around $12.50 to make a batch of 12 scrolls, making them much more affordable, especially when feeding a crowd or preparing snacks for the family. - Healthier Option
Homemade Cheesymite Scrolls allow you to use better-quality ingredients. For example, you can use real butter rather than the flavorless oils used in some commercial versions. This simple change enhances the taste and gives the scrolls a richer, more satisfying flavor. You also control the amount of cheese and Vegemite used, tailoring the recipe to your own preference. If you’re concerned about the nutritional value, you can even experiment with whole wheat flour or reduce the cheese slightly for a lighter option. - Fresh and Flavorful
Freshly baked bread is always superior to store-bought varieties, and the same goes for these scrolls. When you bake them at home, you get to enjoy them warm, straight from the oven, with perfectly melted cheese and a soft, fluffy texture. Store-bought versions may not have the same freshness, and the cheese can sometimes become dry or hard over time. - Freezer-Friendly
One of the best things about Cheesymite Scrolls is that they freeze beautifully. You can bake a large batch and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Simply pop one in the microwave for 20 seconds, and it’s as good as fresh! This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep or for those times when you want a quick snack without the effort of making a new batch.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesymite Scrolls
- Don’t Overload the Vegemite
Vegemite is potent, so it’s important not to go overboard. A thin, even layer spread across the dough provides just the right amount of salty, umami flavor without overwhelming the scrolls. If you’re new to Vegemite, start with a small amount and adjust based on your taste preferences. - Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
For the best results, shred your cheese fresh from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the melting quality, so freshly shredded cheese will give you that perfect gooey melt. - Let the Dough Rise Properly
The key to soft, pillowy scrolls lies in allowing the dough to rise properly. After kneading, let the dough double in size during the first rise. The second rise, after shaping the scrolls, ensures that they expand and become light and fluffy as they bake. - Experiment with Fillings
While the traditional recipe calls for Vegemite and cheese, you can get creative with your fillings. Try adding caramelized onions, ham, or even herbs like rosemary to give the scrolls a different twist. The basic dough recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with flavors that appeal to you.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesymite Scrolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways:
- As a Snack or Breakfast
These scrolls are a fantastic snack for any time of day. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast, or enjoy them as an afternoon pick-me-up. - Lunchbox Staple
Cheesymite Scrolls are a great addition to a school or work lunchbox. They can be made in advance and eaten at room temperature, making them an easy and convenient lunch option. - Party or Picnic Food
These scrolls are also great for parties or picnics. Since they can be made ahead of time and served at any temperature, they’re ideal for gatherings where you need finger food that’s easy to share.
Conclusion
Cheesymite Scrolls are more than just a snack—they’re a beloved piece of Australian culture. Whether you’re a fan of Vegemite or simply love a cheesy, soft bread roll, these scrolls are worth a try. Making them at home not only saves you money but also gives you the opportunity to enjoy them at their freshest, with the ability to customize the flavors to suit your preferences.
From their rich, savory filling to their soft, pillowy texture, Cheesymite Scrolls are a comforting treat that will quickly become a household favorite. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even lunch, these scrolls are an easy and delicious way to bring a taste of Australia into your kitchen. So, why not give them a try and see what all the fuss is about? Whether you’re a Vegemite lover or a cheese enthusiast, Cheesymite Scrolls offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to please.