Old-Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of fresh bread wafting through your home. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that epitomizes warmth and comfort: Old-Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls. These rolls are not only a delight to the senses but are also surprisingly simple to make. With no need for a bread machine, you’ll find these rolls rising tall, soft, and buttery, perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These yeast rolls are a real crowd-pleaser, and here’s why:

• Easy to Make: No fancy equipment needed, just your hands and a bit of time.
• Versatile: Shape them however you wish or bake them in muffin cups for a fun twist.
• Aromatic: The deliciously yeasty scent will fill your kitchen, transporting you to a bakery paradise.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a simple weekday meal, these rolls fit right in.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cloth or board
• 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan
• Oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush

Ingredients

• 1 package active dry yeast (equals 2 1/4 tsp)
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1/3 cup white, granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup hot milk
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 4 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing rolls)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sprinkle yeast over very warm water in a large bowl. Stir until the yeast dissolves and let it foam for about 10 minutes.
2. Add sugar, the 1/4 cup butter, and salt to the hot milk and stir until the sugar dissolves and butter melts. Cool the mixture to 105 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Add the milk mixture to the yeast, and then mix in the egg. Beat in 4 cups of the flour, one cup at a time, to form a soft dough. Use some of the remaining 1/2 cup flour to dust a pastry cloth.
4. Knead the dough lightly for 5 minutes, using the remaining flour for dusting your hands and the pastry cloth as needed.
5. Place the dough in a warm, buttered bowl, turning it to grease all sides. Cover and let rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours.
6. Punch the dough down and knead for 4 to 5 minutes on a lightly floured surface. The dough will be sticky, so use as little flour as possible to avoid making the rolls dense.
7. Divide the dough into four pieces, then cut each piece into four more pieces, or pinch off small chunks to roll into balls about 1 3/4 inches in diameter. Shape each ball by pulling the sides down and under, placing them bottom side down in a well-buttered 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
8. Cover the rolls and let them rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 to 45 minutes. When doubled, brush the tops with melted butter and bake in a 375-degree Fahrenheit oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until nicely browned. Adjust the oven temperature if needed to prevent over-browning.
9. If desired, brush the hot rolls with more melted butter for a soft, buttery crust.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your milk and water are at the correct temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Knead the dough gently to keep it light and airy.
• Be patient with the rising times; they’re crucial for the perfect texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a sweeter roll, add a bit more sugar. You can also sprinkle some herbs or garlic powder on top before baking for a savory twist. These rolls freeze well, so make a double batch to enjoy later!

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact nutrition information can vary, these rolls are a delightful treat that can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have a pastry cloth? No worries! You can use any clean surface dusted with flour.

Can I use whole wheat flour? You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind this may affect the texture.

Conclusion

These Old-Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls are a must-try for anyone who loves home-baked bread. Their irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture will surely make them a favorite in your household. I invite you to try this recipe and experience the joy of baking. Don’t forget to share your results and any tweaks you made. Happy baking!