Caramelised onion and cheddar damper rolls

Caramelised Onion and Cheddar Damper Rolls blend sweet caramelised onions with rich cheddar for a delightful treat. These easy-to-make rolls are baked until golden brown, offering a perfect balance of flavors for any meal.

28 Dec 2025
Cook time 65 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
1 tsp fresh thyme
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp vinegar
3 cups self-raising flour
1 tsp salt
1 cup cheddar cheese
3 eggs

Caramelised onion and cheddar damper rolls are a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors. These golden-brown rolls are perfect for any time of day, whether it's breakfast, a snack, or a side dish for dinner. With a moist, tender crumb and the rich taste of cheddar paired with the sweetness of caramelised onions, these rolls are sure to become a household favorite.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).

2. Caramelise Onion:
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring often, until soft and golden brown (about 10-15 minutes).
- Add the fresh thyme, brown sugar, and vinegar to the pan and stir well.
- Continue to cook for another 5 minutes or until the onion is caramelised and sticky.
- Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and salt.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese to the flour mixture and stir to combine.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the lightly beaten eggs.
- Add the caramelised onions (once they have cooled slightly) to the bowl.
- Mix everything together until a soft dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a little water or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

4. Form Rolls:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for a minute or two.
- Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions, depending on the size of the rolls you want.
- Shape each portion into a roll and place them onto a baking tray lined with baking paper.

5. Bake:
- Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with a little extra beaten egg or milk if desired, to give them a nice golden color.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

6. Serve:
- Allow the rolls to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy these delicious Caramelised Onion and Cheddar Damper Rolls warm, with some butter if desired.

Cooking caramelised onion and cheddar damper rolls is a rewarding experience that fills your home with enticing aromas. The combination of the sweet caramelised onions, savory cheddar cheese, and the light, fluffy texture of the damper rolls makes them a versatile treat that's sure to please. Enjoy these rolls warm with a pat of butter, or use them to make the ultimate gourmet sandwich. Once you've tried them, you'll want to make them a regular fixture in your baking repertoire.

Caramelised onion and cheddar damper rolls FAQ:

What size baking tray should I use for these rolls?

Use a standard baking tray, typically around 13x18 inches (33x46 cm) to accommodate 8-10 rolls. Make sure to line it with baking paper for easy removal.

How can I tell if the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 200°C (392°F).

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or feta for different flavors. Keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary.

What is the best way to store leftover damper rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

What can I add if I want to enhance the flavor further?

Consider adding cooked bacon, further herbs like rosemary or parsley, or spices such as smoked paprika to the dough for additional flavor.

Tips:

- To achieve the perfect caramelised onions, keep the heat low and be patient. Stirring occasionally ensures they don’t burn but develop a rich, deep flavor.

- Grate the cheddar cheese finely. This helps it to distribute evenly throughout the dough, ensuring every bite is cheesy and delicious.

- Use fresh thyme for a more pronounced flavor. Dried thyme can be substituted, but fresh provides a more intense aromatic quality.

- If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can make your own by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder to every cup of plain flour.

- Allow the dough to rest for a few minutes before baking to ensure the flavors meld together beautifully.

- Brush the tops of the rolls with a little beaten egg before baking to achieve a glossy, golden finish.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 390kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 2.87g
Sugar 2.83g
Fat 12g

Caramelised onion and cheddar damper rolls