Baked Ham Cheese Rolls Honey

Baked ham and cheese rolls with honey mustard sauce are the kind of cozy crowd pleaser you reach for when you need a dish that fills the house with that irresistible bakery scent and makes everyone happy around the table. These rolls combine savory ham, melty cheese, and a sweet-tangy glaze, all wrapped in golden pizza dough. Whether you need a brunch star, a special lunch, or a snack for gatherings, these rolls deliver warm comfort in every bite.

I first baked these for a school bake sale on a chilly weekend, and not a single roll was left to bring home. Now I get requests from friends and family every time we plan a potluck or picnic.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: one pound Go for fresh dough from the bakery or deli section for the softest rolls
• Ham: thick cut deli ham holds together better and packs more flavor
• Swiss or Provolone cheese: both melt beautifully and provide creamy texture Aim for freshly sliced cheese for best results
• Unsalted butter: for a rich taste in the glaze and to keep the dough soft
• Poppy seeds: add a nutty crunch to the glaze and make the rolls look special
• Dijon mustard: brings tangy depth to the honey mustard sauce Use a true Dijon for vibrant flavor
• Honey: adds sweetness to balance the salty meats and cheese Opt for pure honey for the best glaze

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

If your pizza dough is from the fridge let it sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes This relaxes the gluten making the dough soft and easy to roll out

Shape the Dough:

Sprinkle a clean surface lightly with flour Roll the dough into a rectangle about sixteen by eight inches It should fit neatly into an eight inch square baking dish

Layer the Fillings:

Lay ham slices across the rolled dough in one even layer making sure to cover all the edges Place cheese slices evenly over the ham so every bite will have gooey cheese

Roll and Slice:

Start at the long side nearest you and roll the dough up tightly into a log The tighter the roll the neater your spiral Use a serrated knife to gently cut the log into nine even pieces

Arrange in Baking Dish:

Spray an eight inch square baking dish lightly with oil Arrange the nine pieces cut side up snugly in the dish so they support each other as they bake

Bake the Rolls:

Place the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Bake for thirty five to forty minutes Check by gently lifting a layer to make sure the center is no longer doughy and the tops look golden

Make the Honey Mustard Glaze:

Meanwhile melt butter then whisk together with Dijon mustard honey and poppy seeds Stir until smooth and fragrant

Glaze and Finish Baking:

Brush the honey mustard glaze generously over the baked rolls. Return them to the oven for ten more minutes until the tops are glistening and deep golden brown

Serve Warm or Room Temperature:

Let the rolls cool just until you can handle them Serve them as is or with extra honey mustard for dipping

My favorite part is that gooey layer where the cheese and honey mustard mix together It reminds me of the picnics we had where these rolls disappeared before anything else even hit the plate There is just something about that sticky sweet glaze that makes these rolls extra memorable

Storage Tips

Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge They will stay fresh for up to three days Pop them in a low oven until warm or microwave gently to keep the bread soft If making ahead assemble the unbaked rolls cover well and refrigerate up to one day before baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ham for turkey or roast beef if you prefer smoky flavors Try cheddar mozzarella or fontina instead of Swiss or Provolone For a bolder topping sprinkle on sesame seeds or substitute spicy brown mustard in the glaze

Serving Suggestions

Pair these rolls with a crisp green salad and fruit for a full meal Or stack them on a game day buffet platter for the perfect hand held finger food They also make a great afterschool snack with a cup of soup

Cultural and Seasonal Context

These rolls channel classic party sandwiches but add a twist with fresh dough and homemade glaze They are perfect for winter holidays or spring brunches because they feel both special and familiar Use local honey for a flavor that matches the season

Seasonal Adaptations

Make them in the fall with applewood ham and sharp cheddar In spring try thin sliced asparagus between the ham and cheese For the holidays switch to cranberry mustard for a festive glaze

Success Stories

I once brought these rolls to a family reunion and watched three generations huddle around the pan waiting for seconds They always vanish first at bake sales and friends constantly ask for the recipe

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze assemble the rolls and place in the dish but do not glaze Wrap tightly in plastic and foil Freeze up to two months When ready to use thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as directed adding five minutes or until hot through Glaze and finish baking

The scent of these sweet and savory rolls signals comfort every time. These are destined to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cheese than Swiss or provolone?

Yes, feel free to substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite melting cheese for a different flavor.

→ Is it possible to prepare the rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the rolls in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Add about 5 extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to maintain their texture.

→ Can I make this without poppy seeds?

Omitting poppy seeds is fine; the glaze will still be flavorful with just honey and mustard.

→ What sides go well with these rolls?

Pair with a fresh green salad, soup, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.