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Brown and serve rolls

Brown and serve rolls


  • Author: Saad
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rising and baking time)
  • Yield: Makes 14 rolls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These soft, buttery brown and serve rolls offer homemade flavor with the convenience of prepping ahead. Par-baked and frozen, they can be finished in minutes for fresh, warm bread anytime—perfect for holidays or busy weeknights!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 100°F
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 2 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  • Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine flour, egg yolks, and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix on low speed for 5 minutes. Let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
  • Incorporate Butter & Knead: Add half of the softened butter to the dough. Mix on low for 30 seconds, then knead on medium speed for 5-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the bowl.
  • First Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
  • Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide into 14 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Shape into smooth balls and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  • Par-Bake the Rolls: Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Brush rolls with melted butter and bake for 25 minutes, until firm but pale.
  • Cool & Store: Let rolls cool for 10 minutes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Final Bake: When ready to serve, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place frozen rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

For extra flavor, add herbs or garlic powder to the dough.

Brush with melted butter before the final bake for a golden crust.

Store par-baked rolls in an airtight bag to prevent freezer burn.

  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Per Roll
  • Calories: 150
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g

Keywords: brown and serve rolls, homemade dinner rolls, make-ahead rolls, freezer-friendly bread, soft butter rolls