If you’re looking for a savory snack with a distinctly Australian twist, Air Fryer Vegemite Scrolls might just be your new go-to favorite. Combining the rich, umami punch of Vegemite with soft, fluffy dough and the convenience of air frying, these scrolls are perfect for busy mornings, lunchbox treats, or afternoon pick-me-ups. Air frying ensures a perfectly crisped exterior while keeping the interior delightfully tender. Whether you’ve loved Vegemite for years or are just discovering its bold flavor, this recipe delivers a unique and satisfying experience with every bite.
What Are Vegemite Scrolls?
Vegemite scrolls are a popular Australian baked snack made by rolling Vegemite and cheese into a soft dough, slicing it into swirls, and baking until golden. They’re similar to cinnamon rolls in shape, but instead of sweet fillings, they offer a salty and cheesy combination that Australians have enjoyed for generations. The air fryer method brings modern convenience to this traditional treat, reducing baking time and creating a crisp finish that’s hard to resist.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air fryers are beloved for their speed, efficiency, and ability to replicate oven-baked textures without heating up the entire kitchen. When making scrolls, the air fryer delivers a crispy outer layer while locking in the cheesy, savory goodness inside. Additionally, it’s a more energy-efficient method and is ideal for small batches.
Benefits of Air Fryer Vegemite Scrolls:
- Quick and easy preparation
- Minimal clean-up
- Even cooking with a crisp finish
- Perfect for snack portions
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Air Fryer Vegemite Scrolls, the ingredients are simple and commonly found in most kitchens. This recipe is also flexible, allowing you to adapt it based on your preferences.
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 cups self-raising flour
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons Vegemite
- 1 to 1.5 cups grated cheese (cheddar works best)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- Butter for spreading (optional)
The self-raising flour and yogurt form a quick dough that doesn’t require proofing, making this an excellent shortcut recipe.
How to Make Air Fryer Vegemite Scrolls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and Greek yogurt. Mix until a sticky dough forms. You can knead it lightly on a floured surface to bring it together into a smooth ball. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the scrolls tender.
2. Roll Out the Dough
Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 1/4 inch thick. A size of about 30cm by 20cm is ideal for even rolling and cutting.
3. Spread the Vegemite
Using a butter knife or the back of a spoon, spread a thin, even layer of Vegemite across the dough. If you prefer a milder taste, you can mix the Vegemite with a bit of butter before spreading.
4. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle grated cheese generously over the Vegemite-covered dough. The cheese melts during cooking and creates a beautiful, gooey interior that contrasts with the crisped edges.
5. Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough up from the long side to create a log. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into scrolls approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick. You should get about 8-10 scrolls depending on the thickness.
6. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 3 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking from the start.
7. Cook the Scrolls
Lightly spray or line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the scrolls in the basket, leaving space between each one for air circulation. You may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve
Remove the scrolls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overload the basket: Cook in small batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Watch for doneness: Depending on your air fryer model, cooking times may vary slightly. Check at the 8-minute mark.
- Make it your own: Add herbs like rosemary, or try mixing in mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Air Fryer Vegemite Scrolls can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 3-4 minutes. You can also freeze them for up to a month and reheat directly from frozen by extending the air frying time by a few minutes.
Perfect for Lunchboxes and On-the-Go Snacks
These scrolls are not only delicious but also practical. They hold up well in lunchboxes, making them great for kids and adults alike. Their small size and satisfying flavor also make them ideal for picnics or road trips. If you’re prepping meals for the week, these scrolls offer a no-fuss solution for savory cravings.
Why Vegemite Scrolls Are a Staple
For many Australians, Vegemite scrolls are tied to childhood memories and school lunch breaks. The salty-sweet balance of Vegemite and cheese wrapped in soft dough is comforting and nostalgic. Air frying adds a modern twist to this classic, giving it a crunchier finish and making the process faster and more accessible.
Variations to Try
While the classic version is a hit, you can customize your Air Fryer Vegemite Scrolls based on your tastes or what you have on hand.
Popular Variations:
- Ham and Cheese: Add thinly sliced ham before rolling for added protein.
- Spinach and Feta: Swap Vegemite for a mix of spinach and crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Scrolls: Add a pinch of chili flakes or jalapeños with the cheese for a spicy kick.
Air Fryer Vegemite Scrolls offer a quick, delicious, and nostalgic snack that fits seamlessly into modern kitchens. Whether you’re whipping them up for your family, preparing school snacks, or just satisfying a craving, these scrolls deliver on taste and convenience. With only a few ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can enjoy warm, cheesy, savory scrolls in minutes crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor.