Cheesymite Scrolls: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Delicious Aussie Treats

Cheesymite Scrolls: Prepare to unlock a nostalgic flavor bomb that will transport you straight back to childhood! Is there anything more quintessentially Australian than the savory, cheesy, and utterly addictive combination of Vegemite and cheese baked into a soft, fluffy scroll? I think not! These aren’t just snacks; they’re a warm, comforting hug in pastry form.

Vegemite, that iconic dark spread, has been a staple in Australian pantries since the 1920s. Originally created as a nutritious and flavorful alternative to imported yeast extracts, it quickly became a beloved part of the national identity. Paired with cheese, it creates a uniquely umami-rich flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. The beauty of Cheesymite Scrolls lies in their simplicity and versatility. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, afternoon tea, or even a quick and easy dinner.

People adore Cheesymite Scrolls for their irresistible combination of textures and tastes. The soft, slightly sweet dough contrasts beautifully with the salty, savory Vegemite and the gooey, melted cheese. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is simply divine! So, whether you’re a lifelong Vegemite enthusiast or a curious newcomer, get ready to experience the magic of Cheesymite Scrolls. Let’s get baking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 500g (approximately 4 cups) strong bread flour, plus extra for dusting
• 7g (1 sachet) dried instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 300ml (1 ¼ cups) lukewarm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
• For the Cheesymite Filling:
• 150g grated cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra stretch!)
• 2 tablespoons Vegemite (or Marmite, if you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for thinning the Vegemite mixture if needed)
• For the Egg Wash (optional, for a golden finish):
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk or water

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, dried yeast, and salt. Make sure the yeast and salt are well distributed, as direct contact between them can inhibit the yeast’s activity. I like to use a whisk to really get everything evenly mixed.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil. The water should be warm to the touch, but not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.
3. Mix the Dough: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky at first, and that’s perfectly normal.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the scrolls their chewy texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step, kneading on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes.
5. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat it with the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is a crucial step, so be patient! The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will rise.

Preparing the Cheesymite Filling:

1. Soften the Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This will make it easier to mix with the Vegemite and cheese. You can leave it out for an hour or two, or microwave it in short bursts (5-10 seconds at a time) until it’s soft but not melted.
2. Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, Vegemite, and grated cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to thin it out slightly. The consistency should be spreadable, but not too runny.

Assembling and Baking the Scrolls:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the scrolls from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 30cm x 40cm (12 inches x 16 inches). The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the Cheesymite filling over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border (about 1cm) along one of the long edges. This will help seal the scroll when you roll it up.
4. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as even as possible.
5. Seal the Seam: Pinch the seam of the dough to seal it tightly. This will prevent the scrolls from unrolling during baking.
6. Cut the Scrolls: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12-15 equal-sized scrolls. I find that using dental floss creates a cleaner cut and prevents the scrolls from getting squished. To use floss, slide a piece of floss under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut through.
7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the scrolls, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each scroll. This will allow them to bake evenly.
8. Second Rise (Optional): For extra fluffy scrolls, cover the baking sheet with a clean kitchen towel and let the scrolls rise for another 15-20 minutes. This is optional, but it will result in a lighter texture.
9. Egg Wash (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water) to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the scrolls with the egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the scrolls are golden brown and cooked through. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
11. Cool and Serve: Remove the scrolls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature. These are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. Parmesan, Gruyere, or even a spicy pepper jack would all be delicious additions.
• Herb Additions: Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or thyme, to the filling for extra flavor.
• Garlic Infusion: Mix some minced garlic or garlic powder into the butter for a garlicky Cheesymite flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just punch it down before rolling it out. You can also assemble the scrolls and freeze them before baking. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, vegan cheese, and a plant-based milk alternative to make these scrolls vegan.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free bread flour blend and follow the recipe as directed. You may need to add a little more liquid to the dough, as gluten-free flours tend to be drier.

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s be honest: you’ve read this far, and that means you’re at least a little bit intrigued by these Cheesymite Scrolls. But let me tell you, intrigued is just the tip of the iceberg! These aren’t just any scrolls; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen, a nostalgic trip back to childhood, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one delicious, cheesy, savory package. Seriously, you absolutely must try this recipe.

Why are they a must-try? Because they’re incredibly easy to make, even for baking beginners. Because the combination of cheese and Vegemite (or Marmite, if that’s your preference!) is an umami bomb that will have you reaching for scroll after scroll. And because they’re endlessly adaptable to your own tastes and preferences. Think of this recipe as a starting point, a canvas for your own culinary creativity.

Beyond the basic recipe, the possibilities are endless! For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate some finely chopped bacon or ham for an extra layer of savory goodness. Vegetarian? No problem! Add some finely diced sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of flavor and color. You could even experiment with different cheeses – a sharp cheddar, a creamy Gruyere, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan would all be fantastic additions. And for those who prefer a sweeter touch, a light brushing of honey butter after baking adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.

Serving suggestions? Oh, where do I even begin? These Cheesymite Scrolls are perfect as a snack, a light lunch, or even as part of a larger brunch spread. They’re fantastic warm, straight from the oven, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. Pack them in lunchboxes, take them on picnics, or serve them as an appetizer at your next party. They’re guaranteed to be a hit, no matter the occasion. I personally love them with a simple side salad or a bowl of hearty soup.

But the real magic of these scrolls lies in their ability to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia. For many of us, the taste of Vegemite is inextricably linked to childhood memories – school lunches, after-school snacks, and family gatherings. These scrolls are a way to recapture that feeling, to share a little bit of that warmth and happiness with your loved ones. They’re more than just a recipe; they’re a connection to the past, a celebration of simple pleasures, and a reminder that the best things in life are often the ones that are shared.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a cheesy, savory adventure. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And when you do make them (because I know you will!), please, please, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear your feedback, your variations, and your own personal stories about these delightful little scrolls. Tag me in your photos on social media, leave a comment below, or send me an email. I can’t wait to see what you create!

Happy baking, and happy scrolling!