Grandma Ida’s Rolls: A Perfect Addition to Any Meal
These soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet rolls have been a family favorite for years. They’re perfect for large gatherings like Thanksgiving dinner or just as a simple, comforting snack. The delicate, buttery flavor and light texture make them the perfect complement to any meal. Grandma Ida’s Rolls are not only delicious but also relatively simple to make, making them a go-to recipe for home bakers looking to impress. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your family, these rolls are sure to be a hit.

Recipe Overview
- Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
- Servings: 18 rolls
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Description: Grandma Ida’s Rolls are perfect for holidays or any meal. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and easy to make, with a sweet buttery flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Dry yeast | 1 packet |
Milk | 1/4 cup |
Milk | 3/4 cup |
Sugar | 1/4 cup |
Salt | 1 tsp |
Egg | 1 |
Butter | 1/4 cup |
Flour | 3 1/2 cups |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 135.8 |
Fat Content | 3.6 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
Cholesterol | 20.4 mg |
Sodium | 158.6 mg |
Carbohydrates | 22.1 g |
Fiber | 0.7 g |
Sugar | 2.9 g |
Protein | 3.5 g |
Instructions
-
Grease the Bowl:
Start by greasing a ceramic or large mixing bowl. This will be where the dough rises, so it’s essential that the bowl is well greased to ensure easy removal of the dough later. -
Warm the Milk:
Gently warm the milk on the stove or in the microwave. Be careful not to boil it—just warm it to a comfortable temperature to help activate the yeast. -
Measure Dry Ingredients:
In one bowl, measure the flour. In a separate smaller bowl, combine the salt and sugar. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before mixing with the wet ingredients. -
Beat the Egg:
In another bowl, beat the egg lightly until it is well combined and smooth. -
Mix Wet Ingredients:
Once the milk has been warmed, add the butter to the milk and stir until it is fully melted. After the butter has melted, stir in the salt and sugar mixture. Next, add the beaten egg and mix it well into the milk and butter mixture. Finally, add the dry yeast and stir until it is fully dissolved. -
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour, a little at a time, while stirring continuously to form a dough. It’s important to add the flour slowly to prevent lumps and ensure the dough comes together evenly. -
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much. -
First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough into the greased bowl, ensuring the dough is well-coated. Flip the dough over so that the greased side is on top. Cover the bowl with a clean dish towel and let it rise for about 2 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. -
Shape the Rolls:
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Then, portion the dough into small sections and shape them into little cloverleaf rolls. You can use a muffin tin to place the rolls, giving them their signature shape. -
Second Rise:
Cover the muffin tin with a towel again and let the rolls rise for another hour. By this point, you should see a nice, full form as the dough expands and fills out the muffin cups. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Once the rolls have finished their second rise, place them in the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls are fully cooked through. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm with a pat of butter or your favorite jam.
Tips and Variations
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Make-Ahead Option: These rolls can be made ahead of time. After shaping the rolls, instead of letting them rise for the second time, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, take them out of the fridge and let them rise for about an hour before baking.
-
Flavor Variations: For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a savory version. You can also experiment with adding garlic powder or even grated cheese to make the rolls a little more indulgent.
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Freezing Rolls: If you have any leftover rolls, you can freeze them. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to refresh the texture.
Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I love these rolls soooo much! They are perfect for family gatherings. The soft, pillowy texture and buttery flavor make them so irresistible.” – Rachel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“These rolls were a big hit at Thanksgiving! They were easy to make and turned out so fluffy and delicious. I will definitely be making them again!” – Kevin
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Grandma Ida’s Rolls are now a staple in our home. They’re the perfect side for any meal, and the kids love them. Simple ingredients, great results!” – Emily
These rolls are the epitome of comfort food and a fantastic way to bring people together around the dinner table. Whether you are looking to impress your guests at a large celebration or just want a cozy treat for your family, Grandma Ida’s Rolls are the perfect choice.