Basic Roll Dough
Soft, fluffy rolls with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a side dish, adaptable for various fillings or toppings to suit any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour and dry yeast.
- Heat milk, sugar, and shortening; add salt just until warm (115° to 120°), stirring constantly until shortening almost melts.
- Add the warm mixture to the dry ingredients; add the egg.
- Beat at low speed of electric mixer for 30 seconds, scraping the bowl.
- Beat 3 minutes at high speed.
- By hand, stir in the remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to grease the surface.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Cover and let rise for 10 minutes.
- Shape into desired rolls.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Bake on greased baking sheets or in greased muffin pans in a hot oven (400°F) for 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. If you don't have shortening, butter can be substituted for a more traditional taste. Ensure the milk temperature is correct to activate the yeast properly; too hot will kill it. Knead the dough until it's smooth for the best texture. If you're short on time, you can let the dough rise in a warm oven.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect as a side for hearty meals like the Round Steak Skillet Meal or toasted with butter and jam for breakfast. They can also be used to soak up sauces from dishes like soups or stews. Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal or enjoy with a cup of Honey Berry Milk Shakes for a delightful treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm. This keeps them soft and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Roll Dough contains roughly 131 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. The next day, allow them to come to room temperature and rise again before baking. This is a great time-saver and ensures fresh rolls for your meal.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date of your yeast and ensure that the milk is at the correct temperature. If you find that the dough hasn't doubled in size, try placing it in a warmer area or letting it rise for a longer period.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of about 190°F. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
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).