Aunt Della'S Refrigerator Rolls
Aunt Della's Refrigerator Rolls are soft, fluffy homemade bread rolls with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for family dinners, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak yeast in a cup of water with 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Scald the milk; add remaining 3/4 cup sugar and salt, then let cool.
- Measure 5 cups of flour into a large bowl.
- Add the softened yeast mixture to the lukewarm milk mixture and blend into the flour. Beat until smooth.
- Add eggs and melted shortening, then incorporate the remaining flour.
- Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and let it rise until doubled in size.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the milk is scalded but not too hot to kill the yeast. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with softened butter for a richer flavor. Knead the dough until smooth, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. For a bit of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect alongside a hearty stew or paired with a light salad. They can be served with a spread of honey butter for a delightful touch. For a complete meal, consider serving them with Veg-All Bake or Southwestern Corn Scallop to create a comforting dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Della'S Refrigerator Rolls contains roughly 802 calories, with 11g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2853mg per serving (124% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it after kneading. Just cover it tightly and let it rise in the fridge. When ready to bake, shape the rolls and allow them to rise at room temperature before baking.
What if my rolls don't rise?
If your rolls don’t rise, it could be due to the yeast being old or the milk being too hot. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure the milk is lukewarm, around 112°F to 115°F, for optimal activation.
Can I add flavors or toppings to these rolls?
Absolutely! You can mix in herbs like rosemary or garlic powder for savory rolls. For a sweet twist, consider adding cinnamon or even chocolate chips. Brush the tops with melted butter before baking for an extra golden finish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).