Granny’s Delicious Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the timeless art of baking with Love With Recipes! Today, we delve into a recipe that embodies warmth, tradition, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness: Granny’s Dinner Rolls. These fluffy, tender rolls are more than just bread—they are a vessel of family memories, a symbol of gatherings, and a testament to the simple pleasures of baking from scratch. Passed down through generations, this recipe has been lovingly adapted to bring joy to your family table. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a weekend brunch, or a cozy dinner, these rolls are guaranteed to elevate any meal with their delightful sweetness and buttery richness. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey that combines technique with tradition, resulting in bakery-quality rolls that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Time

The total time required to bring these Granny’s Dinner Rolls from start to finish is approximately 30 minutes, with a significant portion dedicated to resting and rising, which is essential for developing their airy texture and rich flavor. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking (Baking) Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Note: The actual active work time is minimal, but the resting periods are crucial for achieving the perfect fluffy texture.

Needed Equipment

To ensure a seamless baking experience, gather the following equipment before you begin:

• Mixing bowls: Large enough to accommodate dough mixing and rising.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients.
• Kitchen scale: Optional, but helpful for accurate ingredient weighing.
• Whisk or spoon: For mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Heatproof bowl: To dissolve yeast and combine boiling water safely.
• Thermometer: To monitor water temperature and dough temperature.
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel: Covering the dough during refrigeration and rising.
• Flour sifter or fine mesh sieve: For dusting flour evenly on work surface and dough.
• Rolling pin: Optional, for shaping rolls with uniformity.
• Pastry brush: For applying butter or egg wash.
• Baking sheet: Parchment-lined or lightly greased for baking.
• Oven: Preheated to the correct temperature for baking.

Tags

These Granny’s Dinner Rolls are ideal for the following occasions and dietary considerations:

• Holiday baking (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)
• Family dinners and gatherings
• Brunch recipes
• Comfort food classics
• Homemade baking

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 18 generous dinner rolls, perfect for serving a family of 4-6 people or a larger gathering. Each serving can be considered as 1-2 rolls, depending on appetite and accompanying dishes.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is suitable for bakers of all skill levels, including beginners with basic baking experience. The steps are straightforward, and the recipe provides ample guidance to ensure success. The key is patience during the rising and resting phases to develop the desired fluffy texture.

Allergen Information

These dinner rolls contain:

• Gluten: From wheat flour
• Eggs: Present in the dough
• Dairy: Butter or margarine may be used for brushing (if included)

Note: Always check ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination or allergens if you have food sensitivities.

Dietary Preference

This recipe is:

• Vegetarian
• Not vegan (contains eggs and butter)
• Can be adapted to dairy-free by substituting dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives

Course

This dish falls under the category of bread or side dish, making it perfect for accompanying main courses or enjoying as a snack.

Cuisine

Traditional American comfort cuisine with roots in family baking traditions.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensuring the oven reaches the proper temperature is essential for the desired crust and rise. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and facilitates easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup sugar with a tablespoon of vegetable oil or melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is evenly coated with the oil. This mixture will add a subtle sweetness and a hint of cinnamon if you choose to incorporate it later, elevating the flavor profile of your rolls. For an extra aromatic touch, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to this mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Boiling Water and Dissolve Yeast

Pour the 1/2 cup of boiling water into a heatproof bowl. Allow it to cool slightly until it reaches about 110°F (43°C). This temperature is crucial; too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold may not activate it effectively. Once cooled, add the yeast cake (or dry yeast if using) and a pinch of sugar to help activate the yeast. Stir gently until the yeast begins to dissolve, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy or bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Remaining Ingredients

Crack the egg into a small bowl or directly into the large mixing bowl. Lightly beat the egg with a fork or whisk and add half to the mixing bowl. In the same bowl, pour in the cooled yeast mixture. Add the remaining 1 cup of cold water and the salt, stirring gently to combine. Begin adding the flour gradually, about 1 cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook if using a stand mixer. Mix just until all ingredients are incorporated; avoid overmixing to prevent toughening the gluten structure. The dough should be soft but manageable. If it appears too sticky, dust with a little more flour.

Step 5: Refrigerate the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This resting period not only allows flavors to meld but also firms up the dough, making it easier to shape. The cold temperature slows fermentation slightly but enhances the dough’s structure, leading to lighter, fluffier rolls.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has chilled, transfer it onto a lightly floured surface. Use a bench scraper or your hands to divide the dough into equal portions. For classic dinner rolls, pinch off about 2 to 3 ounces of dough for each roll. Shape each piece into a ball, or if desired, form traditional Parker House rolls by flattening the dough slightly and folding it over. For a more decorative look, you might also shape the dough into butterhorns or rosettes. Place the shaped rolls onto the prepared baking sheet with some space between each to allow for expansion during baking.

Step 7: Brush with Butter

In a small microwave-safe dish, melt 2-3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. For added flavor, sprinkle with garlic salt or herbs if desired. Generously brush the tops of each roll with the melted butter using a pastry brush. This step adds richness, ensures a beautiful golden crust, and infuses the rolls with a delightful aroma as they bake.

Step 8: Allow the Rolls to Rise

Place the baking sheet in a warm, draft-free area to let the rolls rise for approximately 1 hour. During this time, the yeast ferments the sugars, creating carbon dioxide that causes the dough to puff up and develop a light, airy texture. If the environment is cool, you can create a makeshift proof box by placing the rolls inside a turned-off oven with the light on or covering the sheet with a damp towel. Light rising results in fluffier, more tender rolls.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

After the rising period, carefully remove the baking sheet from the warm environment. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the rolls; they should turn a rich, golden brown on top. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your rolls. For a shiny, attractive crust, you may brush the tops with additional melted butter during the last few minutes of baking.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and transfer them onto a cooling rack for a few minutes. Allowing them to cool slightly prevents them from becoming soggy and helps maintain their structure. Serve warm or at room temperature, accompanied by butter, jam, or your favorite spreads. These rolls are perfect for holiday dinners, Sunday brunch, or as a comforting side for soups and stews.

Preparation Tips

• Yeast Activation: Always verify that your yeast is active before mixing it into the dough. A frothy, bubbly mixture indicates readiness.
• Temperature Control: Maintain the water temperature around 110°F (43°C) for optimal yeast activation. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Resting Periods: Do not skip the refrigeration step. It enhances flavor development and dough handling.
• Shaping: Use a gentle touch when shaping the dough to retain the air bubbles that contribute to fluffiness.
• Baking Environment: For extra soft rolls, place a small oven-proof dish with water on the rack below to create steam during baking.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Flavor Variations: Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for savory versions. For a cinnamon-sugar twist, sprinkle more cinnamon before baking.
• Texture Adjustments: For softer rolls, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to the dough. To make them more crusty, brush with egg wash before baking.
• Sweet Additions: Incorporate dried fruits or nuts into the shaping step for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten Development: Kneading the dough lightly or letting it rest longer enhances gluten structure, resulting in better rise and chewiness.

Add-ons and Variations

• Garlic Butter Rolls: Mix minced garlic into melted butter and brush over the rolls before baking.
• Herb Rolls: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the dough for a fragrant touch.
• Cheese-Stuffed Rolls: Insert small cubes of cheese into the shaped dough before the final rise for cheesy surprises.

Side Dishes

Complement these rolls with a variety of dishes, such as:

• Hearty soups like chicken noodle or tomato basil
• Roast meats like turkey, ham, or beef
• Salads with fresh greens and vinaigrettes
• Breakfast spreads with eggs, bacon, or sausage

Improvements

For an even better baking experience, consider:

• Using bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier texture
• Adding a teaspoon of vital wheat gluten to improve structure
• Experimenting with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for unique flavor profiles
• Incorporating a splash of milk or cream into the dough for extra richness

Save and Store

If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, store the cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven or microwave.

FAQ

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set for 5 minutes) and replace butter with a plant-based margarine or oil. Keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Use about 2 1/4 teaspoons of dry active yeast for each cake of fresh yeast. Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar, and let it activate until frothy before adding to the dough.

How do I know when the rolls are baked perfectly?

The rolls should be golden brown on top, with a slight bounce when gently pressed. An internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C) indicates doneness. Also, the edges should be firm and slightly crisp.

Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?

Yes! Incorporate herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the dough for savory variations. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom work well for sweet or aromatic versions. Adjust quantities to taste.

Conclusion

Baking Granny’s Dinner Rolls is more than a culinary task—it’s an act of love, a celebration of family tradition, and a delightful way to infuse your home with irresistible aroma. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create soft, fluffy, and flavorful rolls that will become a staple at your table. The key lies in patience during the resting phases and a touch of creativity in shaping and flavoring. Whether served as the centerpiece of your holiday feast or enjoyed as a comforting snack, these rolls promise to bring smiles and warm memories. Remember, love and patience are the secret ingredients that turn good bread into a cherished family tradition. Happy baking and enjoy every fluffy, buttery bite! For more family-inspired recipes, visit Love With Recipes—your partner in creating delicious memories.