Pumpkin Bread

Introduction

These fluffy and buttery Dinner Rolls are perfect for any meal or special occasion. Made with a simple dough and baked to golden perfection, they are soft, airy, and ideal for soaking up gravy or enjoying on their own.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, mix 3 1/2 cups of flour, salt, yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms. If too sticky, add more flour gradually.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough, divide into 12-15 equal portions, and shape into balls. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a baking sheet.
6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed.
7. Bake the Rolls: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Serve: Brush with additional melted butter if desired and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-15 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (excluding rising time)
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours (including rising times)

Variations

• Whole Wheat Rolls: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier roll.
• Herbed Rolls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) to the dough for added flavor.
• Cheesy Rolls: Incorporate 1 cup of shredded cheese into the dough for cheesy dinner rolls.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. Frozen rolls can be reheated directly from the freezer in the oven.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
   • Yes, you can use instant yeast. You don’t need to activate it in warm milk; just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
2. What if my dough isn’t rising?
   • Ensure your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm. If the dough is still not rising, try moving it to a warmer location or check if the yeast needs replacing.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature and do the second rise before baking.
4. How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
   • The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; they should reach 190°F (88°C).
5. Can I make these rolls using a stand mixer?
   • Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to mix and knead the dough.
6. What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
   • Gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and manageable.
7. Can I use a different type of milk?
   • Yes, you can use any type of milk, including skim, whole, or plant-based milk. Adjust for sweetness as needed.
8. How should I store leftover rolls?
   • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
9. Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs?
   • Yes, you can mix in shredded cheese or chopped herbs to customize the rolls.
10. What should I do if I accidentally added too much flour?
    • If the dough becomes too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

Conclusion

These Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a soft, fluffy texture and buttery flavor that’s hard to resist. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from everyday dinners to holiday feasts. Enjoy these rolls fresh out of the oven, or customize them with your favorite herbs and cheeses for a personalized touch.

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