Aunt Ruth'S Mystery Rolls

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Aunt Ruth's Mystery Rolls are soft, fluffy bread rolls with a hint of sweetness, perfect for breakfast or alongside hearty meals, appealing to both kids and adults.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tsp. shortening
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 c. sugar
  • 1 heaping Tbsp. cake yeast
  • 1 1/2 c. lukewarm water
  • 3 1/2 c. sifted flour
  • 1 egg, well beaten
  • melted butter

Instructions

  1. Add shortening, salt, sugar, and crumbled yeast to lukewarm water and stir until shortening is melted.
  2. Stir in sifted flour; cover and set aside in a warm place, free from drafts, to rise until doubled in bulk.
  3. When doubled in bulk, add the beaten egg and knead lightly.
  4. Let rise again until doubled in bulk.
  5. Roll out the dough 1/2-inch thick on a well-floured board.
  6. Cut with a 2-inch diameter biscuit cutter or pinch off desired amounts.
  7. Place the cut dough in greased cups, top with melted butter.
  8. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of Aunt Ruth's Mystery Rolls, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening for a richer taste. If you don't have cake yeast, you can substitute with active dry yeast, using about 2 1/4 teaspoons. Ensure your water is lukewarm, as too hot can kill the yeast. For a twist, add herbs or garlic powder for a savory version. These rolls pair beautifully with Asparagus Goldenrod.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Aunt Ruth's Mystery Rolls warm, brushed with additional melted butter for extra flavor. They make a delightful accompaniment to soups or salads, enhancing dishes like Tangy Cheese Spread. Consider serving them alongside your favorite main course, or use them to soak up gravies and sauces.

Storage & Reheating

Store any 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 a month. To reheat, wrap rolls in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Ruth'S Mystery Rolls contains roughly 368 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% of the Daily Value).

368 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.3g 15% DV
Total Fat 13.2g 17% DV
Carbs 53.9g 20% DV
Fiber 1.9g 7% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 164.7mg 7% DV
Potassium 78.2mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 13.6mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 14.7mg 1% DV
Iron 3.3mg 18% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 let it rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. This allows the flavors to develop further. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the next steps.

What if my rolls don't rise properly?

If your rolls don't rise, check the temperature of your water; it should be warm, not hot. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If the first rise fails, you can try adding a bit more yeast or moving the dough to a warmer spot to encourage rising.

Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs?

Absolutely! You can fold in shredded cheese, such as cheddar, or fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, into the dough after the first rise. This adds a delightful flavor dimension to the rolls and makes them a versatile side for many dishes.

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).

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