Are you looking for a soft, fluffy bread roll recipe that you can make in no time at all? Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, the prospect of freshly baked bread rolls is enough to spark excitement in any kitchen. But what if we told you that making perfect bread rolls doesn’t have to be a lengthy process? In this post, we’ll show you how to make quick and easy bread rolls that are perfect for any meal, with a streamlined process and delicious results.
This simple recipe will guide you through the ingredients, timing, and step-by-step instructions so you can enjoy soft, pillowy bread rolls in no time. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients List
To get started with these irresistible bread rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s flexible — feel free to make substitutions based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.)
- 1 packet of active dry yeast (or 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar (Honey or maple syrup can be used for a more natural sweetness.)
- 1 cup warm milk (Dairy-free milk, like almond or oat milk, works as well.)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Substitute with olive oil for a vegan version.)
- 1 egg (You can swap with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.)
Feel free to play around with these ingredients to suit your taste. For instance, adding garlic powder or dried herbs like rosemary can elevate the flavor of your rolls, making them even more irresistible.
Timing
When you hear “bread rolls,” you might think they take hours to make, but this recipe proves otherwise. Here’s the breakdown of how long it will take:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (including mixing and kneading)
- Rising Time: 45 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
In total, this bread rolls recipe will take just about 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average bread roll recipe. That means you can enjoy fresh, fluffy rolls without spending the whole day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these bread rolls is quick and easy. Here’s how you can achieve soft, fluffy bread rolls every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes bubbly and foamy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This is the base for your bread rolls. Make sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid using too much flour, which could make the rolls dense.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once your yeast mixture is ready, add the beaten egg and melted butter to it. Pour this mixture into the flour and salt, stirring until the dough starts to form. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If the dough is too sticky, add flour sparingly, but avoid making it dry. Kneading the dough helps activate the gluten and gives your rolls that soft, pillowy texture.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, or until it doubles in size. You can speed up this process by placing the bowl in a slightly warm oven (around 100°F or 37°C).
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Place the dough balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Let them rest for another 15-20 minutes for a final rise.
Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have rested and puffed up, place them in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Once your bread rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For an extra touch of flavor, you can brush the tops with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
Nutritional Information
These quick and easy bread rolls are a treat for your taste buds and provide a good source of energy. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 roll):
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Keep in mind that the values may vary depending on substitutions, such as using whole wheat flour or plant-based butter.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
While these bread rolls are delicious as is, you can make them even healthier with a few simple substitutions:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content.
- Olive Oil Instead of Butter: For a heart-healthy fat, use olive oil in place of butter.
- Natural Sweeteners: Replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to reduce refined sugar intake.
- Dairy-Free Options: Use almond milk or oat milk to make this recipe dairy-free. You can also swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
Serving Suggestions
Bread rolls can be served in many ways, making them versatile for different meals. Here are some serving suggestions to try:
- As a Side for Dinner: These rolls pair beautifully with soups, salads, or a classic roast chicken.
- For Breakfast: Serve them warm with butter, jam, or a drizzle of honey for a delightful breakfast.
- As a Sandwich Bun: Slice the rolls in half and fill them with your favorite sandwich ingredients, from turkey and cheese to roasted veggies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best bakers make mistakes, so here are a few tips to ensure your bread rolls turn out perfect:
- Incorrect Yeast Activation: Make sure your milk is warm, not hot. Too hot, and it will kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
- Under-Kneading or Over-Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic but not too long. Overworking the dough can result in dense rolls.
- Not Allowing Enough Rising Time: If your dough doesn’t rise enough, the rolls will be too dense. Be patient and let the dough rise fully before baking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have any leftover bread rolls, you can store them for later:
- Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the rolls once they have completely cooled by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer bag. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
You can also prep the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise again before proceeding with the shaping and baking steps.
For more delicious cooking ideas and recipes, be sure to explore the full collection on our website!
Conclusion
Making bread rolls doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this quick and easy recipe, you’ll have soft, fluffy rolls ready to complement any meal in just over an hour. Don’t forget to try the healthy alternatives and explore the variety of ways to serve these versatile rolls!
Ready to bake your own perfect bread rolls? Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to leave a comment or share your feedback below. For more delicious recipes and baking tips, subscribe to our blog for the latest updates!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that it will result in a denser, heartier roll, but it’s a great way to increase the fiber content.
How can I make these rolls gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the liquid amounts, so be sure to check the consistency of the dough.
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes! You can freeze the dough after it has been shaped into rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking as usual.
How do I know when my bread rolls are done?
Bread rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a kitchen thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).