Are you dreaming of those pillowy soft, melt-in-your-mouth dinner rolls you get at your favorite restaurant? Stop dreaming and start baking! This recipe recreates the magic of Sister Schubert's famous dinner rolls, bringing the taste of a bakery straight to your kitchen. It's easier than you think, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros seeking a delicious and satisfying homemade treat. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals (relatively speaking!), proving that quick dinner ideas can also be incredibly flavorful. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible homemade rolls!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, a crucial step for perfectly risen rolls.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Don't over-knead, as this can result in tough rolls.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
Step 7: Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with melted butter. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or your favorite spread.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Rolls:
- Yeast is Key: Use fresh yeast for the best results. Check the expiration date!
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading leads to tough rolls. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
- Warmth is Important: A warm place for rising is essential. You can even use a proofer for consistent results.
- Don't Peek Too Often: Resist the urge to constantly open the oven during baking. This can cause the rolls to collapse.
Variations:
- Garlic Rolls: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Herb Rolls: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) into the dough.
- Sweet Rolls: Add ½ cup of sugar to the dough and brush with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 3-4g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
This Sister Schubert's dinner rolls recipe provides a fantastic opportunity for delicious homemade cooking, resulting in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. These rolls are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Enjoy the process and the amazing aroma that will fill your kitchen!