Parker House Rolls

Introduction

Parker House Rolls are a beloved staple in many households, known for their irresistibly soft and buttery texture combined with a subtle sweetness. Growing up, my family always made these rolls for special occasions, and the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Whether served alongside a holiday feast or as a comforting side to a weeknight dinner, these rolls have a way of elevating any meal. Their pillowy softness and rich flavor never fail to impress, and I can’t help but smile when I see the delight on my family’s faces as they take their first bite.

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm milk, sugar, salt, melted butter, and egg. Stir in the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.

4. First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls

After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut circles from the dough. Lightly brush the tops of the dough circles with melted butter, then fold each circle in half, pressing the edges lightly to seal.

6. Second Rise

Place the folded rolls close together on a greased baking sheet. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes until puffed.

7. Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

8. Bake the Rolls

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

9. Brush with Butter

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with more melted butter for a shiny, buttery finish.

10. Serve

Serve the rolls warm with extra butter or your favorite spreads.

These Parker House Rolls are not only soft and buttery but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts (per roll)

• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including rising time)

How to Serve

• Serve warm with melted butter.
• Pair with soups and stews.
• Enjoy with your favorite jams or spreads.
• Use as a side for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Make mini sandwiches with leftover meats or cheeses.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your milk and egg are at room temperature for better dough consistency.
2. Flour Measurements: Start with 3 1/2 cups of flour, adding more as needed to avoid overly sticky dough.
3. Kneading Technique: If kneading by hand, use the heel of your hand to push the dough and fold it over itself for even gluten development.
4. Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to check that your water and milk are at the right temperature for activating yeast.
5. Keep Rolls Warm: If making ahead of time, keep the rolls warm in a towel-lined basket to maintain softness before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Rolls: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a flavorful twist.
• Cheesy Rolls: Incorporate shredded cheese into the dough for cheesy Parker House Rolls.
• Sweet Rolls: Increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons for a sweeter roll that pairs perfectly with breakfast.
• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

Serving Suggestions

• With Soup: Pair your rolls with a creamy tomato basil soup for a comforting meal.
• As a Breakfast Item: Serve with scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast.
• With Salad: Enjoy alongside a fresh garden salad for a light lunch.
• For Dipping: Use them for dipping in sauces or spreads like hummus or spinach dip.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze baked rolls in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

• Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply skip the activation step and add it directly to the flour mixture.

1. What if my dough doesn’t rise?

• Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the water and milk were warm enough. If not, try placing the dough in a warmer area.

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight, allowing it to rise slowly in the fridge.

1. What can I do with leftover rolls?

• Use them for breakfast sandwiches, croutons for salads, or bread pudding.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough space to let the dough rise.

1. How do I know when the rolls are done?

• They should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

1. What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?

• You can substitute with bread flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

1. Can I add nuts or dried fruits?

• Yes, feel free to experiment with adding walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries.

1. What’s the best way to reheat frozen rolls?

• Place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm.

1. Is there a gluten-free version?

• You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though results may vary.

Conclusion

Parker House Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, providing a warm, buttery, and slightly sweet flavor that enhances the dining experience. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or paired with a variety of dishes, these rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. With their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can easily create a batch that will impress family and friends alike. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!

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