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Crispy Jalapeño Cheddar Smash Rolls

jalapeño cheddar smash rolls - featured image

These Crispy Jalapeño Cheddar Smash Rolls are a quick and easy Super Bowl snack with a perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and crispy textures. They feature a soft, gooey inside with a crispy outside, making them a crowd-pleaser for game day or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp (7 g) instant yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 medium jalapeños, finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C), 1 tbsp sugar, and 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Make the dough: Add 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour and 1 tsp salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
  3. Knead the dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a bit more flour if sticky, but keep dough soft.
  4. First rise: Place dough back in bowl, cover with kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the filling: Mix 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar, 2 finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed), ½ tsp garlic powder, and ¼ tsp smoked paprika in a small bowl.
  6. Shape the rolls: Punch down dough and roll out on floured surface into a 12×8 inch (30×20 cm) rectangle. Spread cheese and jalapeño mixture evenly over dough.
  7. Roll and cut: Roll dough tightly from long edge into a log. Cut into 8 equal slices using a sharp knife.
  8. Smash the rolls: Place rolls cut-side up on parchment-lined baking sheet or cast iron skillet. Press down gently on each roll to flatten slightly.
  9. Second rise: Cover rolls loosely and let rise for another 20 minutes until puffed.
  10. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Bake: Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and crispy on edges.
  12. Cool and serve: Let rolls cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set slightly.

Notes

Use warm water about 110°F to activate yeast properly. Smashing the rolls before the second rise is key to achieving a crispy crust. If rolls are doughy inside after baking, add a few extra minutes but watch carefully to avoid drying out. Can substitute pepper jack cheese for more heat or dairy-free cheese for vegan option. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño cheddar rolls, crispy rolls, Super Bowl snack, cheesy rolls, spicy snack, smash rolls, game day food