Parker House Dinner Rolls are soft and fluffy bread rolls that are perfect for any meal. With a slight sweetness and buttery flavor, they’re a big hit at dinner tables!
These rolls are so easy to enjoy; I often catch myself sneaking an extra one or two! They’re great for mopping up sauces or just slathered with butter—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: The warmth of the milk helps activate the yeast, giving the rolls that fluffy texture. If you need a non-dairy option, almond milk or oat milk can work, just ensure they are also warmed.
Unsalted Butter: This gives a rich flavor to the rolls. If you’re watching your sodium, you can use olive oil or coconut oil, but the flavor will be slightly different. I love brushing just a bit of extra butter on top after baking!
Active Dry Yeast: A key ingredient for rising! If you’re out of this, you could use instant yeast in the same amount, or even fresh yeast if you can find it. I’ve found that using fresh yeast does enhance the flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This is a staple, but a blend of bread flour can give an even fluffier result. And if you’re gluten-free, look for a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for similar results.
How Do I Ensure My Rolls Are Perfectly Fluffy?
A common challenge is getting the rolls light and airy. First, always check the freshness of your yeast. If it’s old, your rolls may not rise well. The rising time is crucial—don’t rush it! Here’s how to nail it:
- When mixing the dough, it should be tacky but not sticky. Adjust with flour as needed.
- During the first rise, cover the bowl well to keep moisture in, creating a cozy environment for the yeast.
- For the second rise, ensure the rolls are in a warm spot; this helps them puff up nicely.
Taking these steps will lead to fluffy rolls that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make Parker House Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F/43°C)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted plus extra for brushing
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes of active preparation time, with additional rises totaling about 2 to 2.5 hours. After baking, you’ll wait a few minutes for the rolls to cool slightly. Overall, you’re looking at about 3 hours to complete the whole process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Mixing these first ensures that the salt is evenly distributed, which helps prevent the yeast from being inhibited.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg into the flour mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, meaning it should look a bit messy but hold together.
4. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you prefer using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
5. First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours until it has doubled in size. This is where the yeast works hard to create those fluffy rolls!
6. Shape the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 2 ounces each). Shape each piece into an oval or ball shape, flatten it slightly, and fold the dough in half for that classic Parker House shape.
7. Second Rise:
Arrange the rolls close together in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spaced evenly. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they are puffy and have filled in the spaces.
8. Preheat the Oven:
While the rolls are in their second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when you are!
9. Bake the Rolls:
Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes until they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them starting around 15 minutes to ensure they don’t get too brown.
10. Add the Finishing Touch:
Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops generously with melted butter for that extra shine and flavor. It’s what makes them irresistible!
11. Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving them warm. These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, slathered with butter or paired with your favorite meal!
Enjoy making these delightful Parker House Dinner Rolls! They’re perfect for any gathering or just a cozy family dinner!
Can I Use Almond Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, almond milk works well as a substitute! Just make sure it’s warmed to about 110°F (43°C) before mixing it with the yeast to activate properly.
How Do I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to a month—just thaw and warm them before serving!
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough hasn’t risen, it could be due to old yeast or the temperature of your environment. Make sure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warmer location, like near a turned-off oven or in sunlight.
Can I Make These Rolls in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, allow it to rise, shape the rolls, and then refrigerate them overnight before the second rise. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise again before baking. This makes them super handy for brunch or holiday meals!
