Milo Cheese Bread Rolls

Imagine the warmth of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, but with a twist that makes it even more irresistible. Soft, fluffy rolls infused with the malty sweetness of Milo and oozing with melted cheese in every bite. These Milo Cheese Bread Rolls are a treat that balances comfort with creativity, turning an everyday bread roll into something unforgettable.

Behind the Recipe

Every recipe has a little story tucked inside, and this one is no different. Growing up, Milo was always that comforting drink we reached for, whether it was after school or on a rainy morning. The idea of tucking it into bread dough came from a playful thought of combining nostalgic flavors with the cozy pull of homemade bread. Adding cheese brought in the savory element that balances out the sweetness, making this recipe both fun and deeply satisfying.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Milo, created in the 1930s, has become a pantry staple in many households, especially in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Australia. Known for its chocolatey malt flavor, it’s often used beyond drinks, finding its way into desserts, ice creams, and baked goods. Pairing Milo with cheese reflects the trend of blending sweet and savory, which is particularly popular in modern Asian bakeries where cheese-stuffed buns are a hit.

Why You’ll Love Milo Cheese Bread Rolls

Trust me, you’re going to love this. Here’s why:

Versatile: Perfect as a snack, breakfast treat, or even a playful dessert.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples that won’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps for fluffy rolls with gooey centers.

Customizable: Swap the cheese or adjust the Milo level to your liking.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from kids to adults will reach for seconds.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepped in advance for stress-free baking.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat them and they taste just as delightful the next day.

Print

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A little insider guidance makes all the difference:

1. Use warm milk to activate the yeast faster and ensure fluffy rolls.
2. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes, for the best texture.
3. Don’t overstuff with cheese—leave space so the filling doesn’t ooze out while baking.
4. Brush the tops with egg wash for that golden bakery-style finish.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we begin, let’s gather a few essentials:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining dough ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking.
• Stand Mixer or Hands: For kneading the dough until smooth.
• Baking Tray: To hold the rolls during baking.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying egg wash.

Ingredients in Milo Cheese Bread Rolls

Every bite is a harmony of flavors, and here’s what you’ll need to bring it together:

1. All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups (provides structure and softness).
2. Milo Powder: ½ cup (infuses that signature malty chocolate flavor).
3. Instant Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (helps the dough rise).
4. Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup (adds sweetness and balances flavor).
5. Salt: 1 teaspoon (enhances flavor and controls yeast activity).
6. Warm Milk: 1 cup (activates yeast and adds richness).
7. Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup, softened (adds tenderness and flavor).
8. Egg: 1 large (binds the dough and enriches texture).
9. Cheese Cubes: 1 cup, mozzarella or cheddar (creates a gooey filling).
10. Egg Wash: 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (for a golden top).

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you need a swap, and here’s how you can do it:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use bread flour for an even chewier texture.
• Milo Powder: Substitute with Ovaltine or cocoa malt mix.
• Cheese: Try cream cheese for a tangy surprise or processed cheese for extra stretch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Milo Powder: This iconic malted chocolate drink mix adds a nostalgic sweetness and a unique depth of flavor that regular cocoa can’t match.

Cheese: Beyond just gooey indulgence, cheese balances the sweetness of Milo with its savory notes, creating harmony in every bite.

Instructions for Making Milo Cheese Bread Rolls

And now, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring these beauties to life:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking tray.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, Milo powder, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm milk, butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Assemble the Dish: Divide the dough into 12 portions. Flatten each, place a cube of cheese in the center, and pinch to seal.
5. Cook to Perfection: Arrange the filled dough balls on the tray. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes until doubled in size. Brush with egg wash.
6. Finishing Touches: Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Tear one open and savor that molten cheese against the Milo-flavored bread.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These rolls are a study in contrasts. The bread is soft and fluffy with just a whisper of malted sweetness, while the center reveals gooey, melty cheese that stretches luxuriously with each bite. The top is golden and slightly crisp, offering the perfect bite before you sink into pillowy goodness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few helpful nudges to make baking smoother:

• Use room temperature butter for easy incorporation into the dough.
• If the dough feels sticky, dust with a little flour, but don’t overdo it.
• For extra Milo flavor, sprinkle some on top of the rolls before baking.

What to Avoid

Even the best bakers make mistakes, but here’s how to dodge them:

• Don’t use hot milk, it can kill the yeast.
• Avoid overbaking, the rolls can dry out quickly.
• Don’t skip resting time, the dough needs it to rise properly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 rolls
Calories per serving: ~210

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise time)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The dough can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Baked rolls keep well in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To freeze, wrap cooled rolls individually and store for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.

How to Serve Milo Cheese Bread Rolls

These rolls shine as a breakfast companion with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make a delightful afternoon snack, or you can serve them as a playful dessert with a drizzle of condensed milk or chocolate sauce.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you somehow have leftovers:

• Slice them open and toast lightly for a crisp edge.
• Turn them into sweet-savory bread pudding.
• Use them as a base for mini sandwiches with more cheese.

Additional Tips

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for a nutty crunch. For extra richness, swap some milk with condensed milk. And if you love a glossy finish, brush with melted butter after baking.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve the rolls in a woven basket lined with a pretty cloth napkin. Add a light dusting of Milo powder on top for visual appeal. That golden crust with a chocolatey sprinkle will look irresistible on any table.

Variations to Try

1. Nutella Swirl Rolls: Add a spoonful of Nutella with the cheese filling.
2. Ube Cheese Rolls: Replace Milo with ube powder for a colorful twist.
3. Spiced Milo Rolls: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
4. Double Cheese Rolls: Mix mozzarella and cheddar for gooey sharpness.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make these without Milo?

Yes, simply replace Milo with cocoa powder or Ovaltine.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can, but the rolls will be denser and less fluffy.

3. What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella for stretch, cheddar for sharpness, or cream cheese for tang.

4. Can I use a bread machine?

Yes, let the machine handle the dough cycle, then shape and bake as directed.

5. How do I know if my dough has risen enough?

It should double in size and feel airy when poked.

6. Can I make mini versions?

Absolutely, just divide into smaller portions and reduce baking time slightly.

7. Do these rolls freeze well?

Yes, freeze after baking and reheat before serving.

8. Can I add more Milo for stronger flavor?

Yes, but adjust flour slightly to keep the dough balanced.

9. Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and vegan butter and cheese.

10. How do I reheat without drying them?

Wrap in foil and warm in the oven at low heat to keep them moist.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about the way these Milo Cheese Bread Rolls combine familiar childhood flavors with the comfort of fresh bread. Every bite is a balance of sweet, savory, soft, and gooey. It’s the kind of recipe that feels playful yet deeply satisfying, and once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

How to make Milo Cheese Bread Rolls