Crusty Dinner Rolls Recipe
Prep Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Description
These Crusty Dinner Rolls from lovewithrecipes.com are a delightful addition to any meal, boasting a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Perfect for bread enthusiasts and novice bakers alike, these rolls are sure to impress with their simplicity and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/4 cup water (for wash)
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, water, salt, and instant yeast. Mix until a soft, somewhat rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough either by hand, using a mixer, or a bread machine until it becomes cohesive and slightly smooth.
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First Rise
- Cover the dough and let it rise for 3 hours. During this time, gently deflate the dough and turn it over after 1 hour, and then again after 2 hours.
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Shaping the Rolls
- After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly greased or floured work surface.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Roll each ball under your lightly cupped fingers on an unfloured surface to firm them up.
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Second Rise
- Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until they have doubled in size.
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Chill Overnight (Optional)
- For enhanced flavor and texture, refrigerate the rolls for several hours or overnight.
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Prepare the Wash
- Before baking, mix 1/2 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of egg white to create a wash.
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Baking
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Brush the risen rolls with the prepared wash.
- Using a sharp knife, slash a 1/4-inch deep cut across the top of each roll.
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are a deep golden brown.
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Cooling
- Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool.
- For an extra-crisp crust, you can allow the rolls to cool in the turned-off oven with the door propped open.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
- Calories: 132.9
- Fat: 0.4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 291.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 27.9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0.1g
- Protein: 3.8g
Tips for Success
- Ensure the dough is well-kneaded to achieve a smooth texture.
- Properly proofing the dough is essential for a light and airy interior.
- The overnight chilling step enhances the flavor and allows for better dough handling.
- Brushing with the egg wash before baking gives the rolls a shiny, golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
These Crusty Dinner Rolls are best served fresh from the oven alongside soups, stews, or as part of a dinner spread. They also make excellent sliders or sandwiches with your favorite fillings.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To make ahead, you can prepare the dough up to the shaping stage and refrigerate overnight. Bake the rolls as directed when ready to serve. Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
Variations
- Herb Rolls: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist.
- Cheese Rolls: Mix in shredded cheese such as cheddar or parmesan before shaping the rolls.
- Sweet Rolls: Incorporate a tablespoon of sugar and a dash of cinnamon for a sweeter version.
Conclusion
With its straightforward instructions and minimal ingredients, this Crusty Dinner Rolls recipe is perfect for those looking to elevate their bread-baking skills. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at yeast breads for the first time, these rolls are guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy the process of baking and sharing these delicious rolls with family and friends!
