Are you a fan of those incredibly soft, melt-in-your-mouth rolls served at O'Charley's? The kind that practically beg to be slathered with butter and honey? Well, you're in luck! This recipe unlocks the secret to recreating those irresistible rolls right in your own kitchen. Forget takeout – prepare for homemade deliciousness that'll have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or impress your guests with homemade cooking at your next gathering. These rolls are a fantastic addition to any meal, transforming a simple dinner into a truly special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/4 cup butter, softened (for brushing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, resulting in perfectly risen rolls.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined. This step creates a smooth base for your dough, ensuring even rising and a consistent texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead for 5-7 minutes. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This crucial step allows the yeast to ferment, giving your rolls their signature fluffiness.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a greased baking sheet.
Step 6: Second Rise (Proofing)
Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size. This second rise ensures perfectly light and airy rolls.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls generously with softened butter. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best served warm, with butter, honey, or your favorite spread.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Rolls:
- Yeast is Key: Use fresh yeast for the best results. Expired yeast can lead to flat rolls.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in tough rolls. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Warm Environment: A warm place for rising is essential. You can even place the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to speed up the process.
- Don't Peek Too Often: Resist the urge to constantly check on your rising dough. Opening the oven or bowl too frequently can disrupt the rising process.
Variations:
- Garlic Rolls: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the dough for a savory twist.
- Herb Rolls: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) into the dough.
- Sweet Rolls: Add 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the dough for a sweeter roll.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make rolls! They're sure to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a special celebration. Happy baking!