As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Spice up your bread basket with these pillowy, golden-brown rolls brimming with tangy sourdough flavor, gooey cheese, and fiery jalapeños. They pull apart beautifully, making them perfect for sharing—and they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. If you love bold flavor, try adding an extra twist with our “Melty Pepper Jack & Jalapeño Sourdough Bites” variation below. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons softened butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (or cheddar, if preferred)
- 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust heat to taste)
- Extra jalapeño slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Begin by mixing the flour, active sourdough starter, warm water, softened butter, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to incorporate everything until it forms a shaggy dough. Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and slightly springy. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as you go; if it’s too dry, add a splash of water.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 3–4 hours, or until it doubles in size. Next, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently press it into a rectangle. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and chopped jalapeños evenly across the dough. Roll it into a log and slice into 8–10 segments. Arrange the segments in a greased round baking pan or cast-iron skillet, slightly overlapping so they pull apart easily once baked. Cover again and let rise for another 1–2 hours, until they look puffed and snug. Finally, bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Be sure to let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning those eager fingers.
These cheesy jalapeño rolls are perfect for anyone who loves a bit of spice mixed with the comforting tang of sourdough. They make a wonderful side for chili nights or a tasty party snack, and they’re easy to customize—swap pepper jack for cheddar or add extra jalapeños if you like it really hot. For a lighter option, try using reduced-fat cheese or stirring diced bell peppers into the dough for color without the heat. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or simply craving a flavorful twist on classic dinner rolls, these satisfying pull-apart buns are sure to impress!
