Vegemite & Cheddar Cheese Scrolls are a beloved Australian treat, perfect for lunchboxes or as a snack. These fluffy spirals feature a delightful contrast of flavors, with the savory, umami-rich Vegemite paired with the creamy, melted cheddar cheese. The combination creates a unique taste experience that is both comforting and satisfying, making them a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Cook with confidence
Cook's notes
For the best texture, ensure your butter is cold when mixing it into the flour; this helps create a flaky, tender scroll. Bake until golden brown, usually around 15-20 minutes, but keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary. Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set a bit, enhancing the flavor and texture.
Substitutions
If you don't have Vegemite, you can use Marmite or a similar yeast extract spread for a comparable umami flavor. For a dairy-free option, substitute the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a non-dairy milk.
Storage & leftovers
Store any leftover scrolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just wrap each scroll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Common failures
If your scrolls turn out dense, it may be due to overworking the dough or not using enough baking powder. Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour, as too much can lead to a heavy texture. Also, avoid opening the oven door too often while baking, as this can cause them to collapse.
Why these ingredients
How each main ingredient earns its place in this recipe
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all-purpose flour
The flour provides the structure for the scrolls, and its ratio of 2.5 cups ensures a light and fluffy texture when combined with the baking powder.
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Vegemite
Vegemite adds a unique umami flavor that defines the scrolls, with 2 tablespoons providing a strong, savory taste that complements the cheese.
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cheddar cheese
The grated cheddar cheese not only adds creaminess and richness but also melts beautifully, contributing to the scrolls' delightful texture and flavor.
Preparation
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Step 1 15 min
In a large bowl, rub the cold butter into the flour and baking powder with your fingertips until the mixture is crumbly. Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms. This process should take about 15 minutes.
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Step 2
On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle, approximately 0.5 inches thick. Make sure the surface is well-floured to prevent sticking.
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Step 3
Spread a very thin, even layer of Vegemite across the flat dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This will ensure the filling doesn't ooze out during baking.
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Step 4 10 min
Evenly scatter the grated cheddar cheese over the Vegemite layer. Then, starting from one end, tightly roll the dough up lengthwise into a cylinder, ensuring a snug fit.
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Step 5
Carefully slice the rolled dough into 1.5-inch thick rounds. Lay the rounds flat on a baking sheet, ensuring the spiral cross-section is clearly visible.
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Step 6 15 min
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the scrolls in the preheated oven until the dough puffs up, the cheese melts to a golden brown, and the black swirl pattern is fully defined, which should take about 15 minutes.
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