Vegemite scrolls are a beloved Australian snack that blends the rich, salty taste of Vegemite with gooey melted cheese and soft, fluffy dough. Whether you grew up enjoying them from the bakery or you’re trying them for the first time, learning how to make Vegemite scrolls at home is both rewarding and fun. Perfect for school lunches, road trip snacks, or afternoon tea, these savory scrolls are quick to prepare and can be customized to your taste. With the right technique, you’ll get beautifully swirled rolls with golden edges and just the right balance of flavors.
What You Need to Make Vegemite Scrolls
Basic ingredients for the dough
To begin, gather the essentials for a simple and soft dough. You can use either a yeast-based or a quick dough depending on how much time you have. For a fast version, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups self-raising flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, chilled and chopped
- 3/4 cup milk (plus more if needed)
Self-raising flour creates a fluffy texture without the need for yeast or extended rising time. If you want a more bread-like texture, you can opt for a yeast dough, but the quick dough is just as delicious and far easier to make for beginners.
Filling ingredients
The filling is the highlight of any Vegemite scroll. To create the signature taste, you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons Vegemite (adjust based on your preference)
- 1 to 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese (tasty cheese works well)
Vegemite is strong and salty, so you don’t need a lot. If you’re new to Vegemite, use less at first and increase as your taste develops. The cheese adds richness and helps mellow the intensity of the Vegemite.
Preparing the Dough
Making and rolling the base
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (about 390°F) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. Then follow these steps:
- In a large bowl, mix the self-raising flour and salt together.
- Rub the chilled butter into the flour using your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Add the milk gradually and mix with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. If it’s too dry, add a splash more milk.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Roll the dough out into a rectangle approximately 30 cm x 20 cm in size and about 1 cm thick.
Be careful not to overwork the dough. A light touch ensures the scrolls stay tender and soft when baked.
Adding the Vegemite and Cheese
How to spread evenly and roll properly
Warm the Vegemite slightly if needed to make it easier to spread. Use the back of a spoon to lightly smear it across the rolled-out dough. Be sure to:
- Leave a small border (about 1 cm) around the edges for easier sealing.
- Spread thinly to avoid overpowering the scroll with too much saltiness.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the entire Vegemite layer.
Once covered, begin rolling the dough tightly from the long side, like a Swiss roll. Try to keep the roll even and firm but not too tight, or the filling may spill out. Seal the edge by pinching it gently.
Cutting and Baking the Scrolls
Getting perfect slices and texture
To cut neat scrolls, use a serrated knife or dental floss. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the roll into pieces about 2-3 cm thick.
- Place each scroll flat-side down on the prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart.
- Optional: sprinkle a little extra cheese on top of each scroll for added crispness and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden and puffed up.
Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned, and the dough should be cooked through without being dry.
Serving Suggestions
When and how to enjoy Vegemite scrolls
Once baked, allow the scrolls to cool slightly before serving. They taste best warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Here are some popular ways to serve them:
- Pack in school lunchboxes as a savory snack
- Enjoy with tea or coffee as a light breakfast
- Serve at parties or gatherings as finger food
- Wrap and freeze for meal prepping and quick lunches
Vegemite scrolls are wonderfully versatile. You can make a batch ahead of time, refrigerate for a few days, or freeze for later. Simply reheat in a toaster oven or microwave to bring back their freshly baked feel.
Tips for Perfect Vegemite Scrolls
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even a simple recipe like this can have challenges. Here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t overfill: Too much Vegemite or cheese can cause the scrolls to unravel or become soggy.
- Chill the Vegemite briefly: A slightly firmer Vegemite is easier to control while spreading.
- Use strong cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the scrolls a more pronounced, satisfying flavor.
- Let scrolls cool on a rack: This prevents sogginess on the bottom and keeps the texture just right.
Practice makes perfect, and after a few batches, you’ll discover your ideal filling ratio and favorite dough texture.
Variations on the Classic Scroll
Creative twists to try
Once you’ve mastered the traditional Vegemite scroll, experiment with some variations to suit different tastes:
- Add caramelized onions: Sweet onions balance the salty Vegemite beautifully.
- Mix in herbs: A little rosemary or thyme adds an aromatic touch to the dough or cheese.
- Make them mini: Use smaller portions of dough and cut thinner rolls for bite-sized party snacks.
- Try puff pastry: For a buttery, flaky version, use store-bought puff pastry instead of dough.
These simple additions can completely change the scroll’s flavor profile and make them suitable for more occasions or dietary preferences.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Keep your scrolls fresh
Vegemite scrolls are easy to store and maintain their flavor well with proper handling:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for longer freshness (up to 5 days), but reheat before eating for the best texture.
- Freeze in individual portions wrapped in foil or baking paper for up to 1 month.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-8 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds until warm.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or packing lunch in a hurry, having a few scrolls ready to go makes snack time easy and satisfying.
Mastering how to make Vegemite scrolls at home is a great way to enjoy this uniquely Australian treat anytime you want. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create warm, cheesy, and savory scrolls that satisfy cravings and impress friends. Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with creative additions, homemade Vegemite scrolls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Bake a batch today and discover why this iconic snack holds a special place in Aussie food culture.