Best Refrigerator Rolls
Soft, fluffy refrigerator rolls with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast or dinner. Easy to prepare ahead and enjoy fresh or toasted throughout the week.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over shortening, sugar, and salt; blend and cool.
- Add beaten eggs to the mixture.
- Sprinkle dry yeast into lukewarm water; stir until dissolved.
- Combine the yeast mixture with the cooled first mixture.
- Add flour gradually and blend well to form a dough.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, up to a week.
- Roll the dough into shapes or cut out as desired.
- Place the shaped dough in a greased pan; let rise in a warm place for 3 hours.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. Ensure the boiling water is not too hot to avoid cooking the eggs when combined. If you're short on time, you can skip refrigerating the dough overnight, but the flavor will deepen with longer chilling. This recipe is a great base for variations; try adding herbs or cheese for a savory twist.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect served warm with butter and jam alongside a hearty soup or salad. They also pair beautifully with Aunt Margaret'S Frozen Buttermilk Ice Cream for a delightful dessert option. Consider serving them with a holiday meal or family gathering; they complement roasted meats and festive sides beautifully.
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 sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Refrigerator Rolls contains roughly 244 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1009mg per serving (44% 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 use active dry yeast instead of dry yeast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it first by mixing it with lukewarm water and a bit of sugar before combining it with the dough mixture. This will ensure the yeast is fully activated and will help your rolls rise perfectly.
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 toothpick; if it comes out clean, the rolls are ready. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even garlic powder into the dough before shaping. These additions can enhance the flavor and make the rolls even more delicious. Just be mindful of the total flour ratio to ensure the dough remains manageable.
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).