🥖🧀 Stuffed Pancitos with Ham & Cheese

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500 g all-purpose flour (about 4 cups)
• 10 g dry yeast (about 1 tbsp)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 250 ml warm milk (about 1 cup)
• 1 large egg
• 50 g butter, softened (about 3½ tbsp)
• 1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 200 g cooked ham, chopped into small pieces
• 250 g mozzarella cheese (or any cheese that melts well), shredded

For Topping:

• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp milk
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

1. Add warm milk to a small bowl.
2. Mix in sugar and dry yeast.
3. Let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

2. Make the Dough

1. Add flour to a large bowl and create a well in the center.
2. Add the egg and activated yeast mixture.
3. Sprinkle salt around the edges of the flour.
4. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
5. Add softened butter and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, soft, and elastic.

3. First Rise

1. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl.
2. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
3. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Fill the Rolls

1. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 10–12 pieces).
2. Flatten each piece into a small circle.
3. Add chopped ham and shredded mozzarella in the center.
4. Fold the dough around the filling and seal the edges.
5. Roll into smooth balls.

5. Second Rise

1. Place stuffed rolls on a lined baking tray.
2. Cover and let them rest for another 20–30 minutes.

6. Bake

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Mix egg with milk and brush over each roll.
3. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Storage:

• Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
• Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Facts (Approx. per roll):

Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 12g

Makes: 10–12 stuffed rolls

🥖🧀 Best served warm when the cheese is melted and stretchy!