Golden Puff Pastry Rolls Filled with Melty Cheese and Smoky Bacon
Golden puff pastry rolls filled with melty cheese and smoky bacon are a timeless comfort food that brings warmth, texture, and indulgence in every bite. These savory rolls are irresistibly flaky on the outside and filled with a rich, cheesy center that’s punctuated by the salty crispness of bacon. Whether you’re preparing for a brunch, looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or simply craving a flavorful snack, this recipe delivers satisfaction with minimal effort. With a few staple ingredients and a short baking time, you can whip up these golden bites in just over half an hour.
What makes this dish so special is the beautiful harmony between the buttery puff pastry and the melted cheese nestled inside. The bacon adds a smoky depth, and optional additions like dried thyme or Parmesan topping bring an herbal or nutty twist that elevates the entire experience. It’s also a versatile recipe—easy to customize with different cheeses, herbs, or even spicy additions like chili flakes. If you’re a fan of food that looks as good as it tastes, these spiraled rolls bake into beautiful golden rounds with bubbling cheese and crispy bacon peeking through the folds.
Let’s take a deeper look at how these puff pastry rolls come together, from prep to plate.
Ingredients
To make approximately 12 to 14 golden puff pastry rolls, you will need:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
100 grams lardons or thick-cut bacon, diced
1 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Flour, for dusting the rolling surface
Optional toppings: sesame seeds or grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon or lardons without oil. Let them sizzle and release their fat, turning occasionally until they are evenly browned and crispy. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess grease. Let it cool for a few minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle. The exact size doesn’t need to be perfect, but try to keep it around 10 by 12 inches for even rolling. If the pastry feels too sticky or soft, place it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up before handling.
Once rolled, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Gruyère will give you a more nutty, rich flavor, while cheddar will offer a sharp and creamy taste. Either cheese works wonderfully.
Next, distribute the cooled, crispy bacon bits evenly across the cheese layer. At this stage, you can also season the filling with ground black pepper and a pinch of dried thyme if you’re looking for a subtle herbal aroma.
Now it’s time to roll. Starting from one of the longer sides, gently but firmly roll the pastry into a tight log. Try to keep the roll consistent so that the spirals are uniform when sliced. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch pieces. You should get about 12 to 14 rolls depending on your slicing.
Place each roll flat-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out slightly to allow for puffing during baking. Using a pastry brush, coat the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg. This egg wash gives them a golden shine once baked. For extra flavor and crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds or grated Parmesan over the tops before they go into the oven.
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. The cheese should be melted and bubbling, and the bacon should be visible in the swirls. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t over-brown.
Remove the tray from the oven and let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. These puff pastry rolls are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. They reheat well in a toaster oven or air fryer for a quick snack later.
Serving Suggestions
These puff pastry rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a savory breakfast with coffee or tea, or as part of a brunch spread with fruit, eggs, and fresh juice. They’re a hit at parties and potlucks, disappearing quickly from appetizer trays. For lunch, pair them with a light salad or soup. If you’re preparing for a gathering, consider making two batches—they go fast.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated 180°C (350°F) oven or air fryer for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the rolls, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for several hours before baking. This is especially helpful if you’re entertaining or want a no-fuss breakfast option ready to go.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Try substituting or combining the following ingredients for new variations:
– Cheeses: mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or feta
– Meats: pancetta, ham, cooked sausage, or even leftover roast chicken
– Herbs: rosemary, oregano, fresh chives, or parsley
– Heat: a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeños
– Sweet-savory twist: a drizzle of honey over the cheese before rolling, paired with crispy prosciutto
You can also use mini puff pastry squares to create bite-sized versions ideal for canapés or cocktail parties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something universally satisfying about a crispy, golden roll that reveals a gooey, savory center with every bite. The combination of textures—flaky pastry, melted cheese, and crunchy bacon—is unbeatable. With ingredients you likely already have in your fridge and freezer, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a gourmet snack or appetizer with minimal effort.
Despite how elegant and impressive they look, these rolls are quick and simple to make. They don’t require special tools or baking skills. The most important tip is to work with well-chilled pastry and to use a sharp knife when slicing the rolls. These small details help the spirals hold their shape and bake evenly.
Nutrition Estimate
Each roll contains approximately 140 kcal, depending on the exact size and toppings used. If you’re keeping an eye on your intake, you can make smaller rolls or reduce the amount of cheese slightly without sacrificing flavor. Using turkey bacon or a lower-fat cheese is another way to lighten up the recipe.
Final Thoughts
Golden puff pastry rolls filled with melty cheese and smoky bacon are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, entertaining guests, or treating yourself to something special, they deliver the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory in every bite. The ingredients are flexible, the steps are simple, and the results are stunning.
From the smell that fills your kitchen while they bake to the satisfying crunch when you bite into one, these rolls check every box for comfort and taste. Try them once, and they’re bound to become a regular in your rotation of go-to savory treats.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Calories: ~140 kcal per roll
Servings: 12 to 14 rolls