California Yeast Rolls
Soft, buttery California Yeast Rolls with a tender crumb and golden crust, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion that calls for warm, homemade bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat milk and shortening until shortening is melted.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Gradually stir in the hot milk and shortening mixture.
- Add the egg and stir well.
- Mix in enough flour to achieve kneading consistency.
- Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Pinch off small pieces of dough and shape into rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased pan.
- When the pan is filled, cover the rolls and let them rise in a warm, draft-free place for 45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter. To enhance the texture, allow the dough to rise longer if your kitchen is cool. Make sure to knead well to develop gluten for fluffy rolls.
Serving Suggestions
These yeast rolls are perfect as a side for hearty meals like roasted chicken or pot roast. They also pair beautifully with Jim'S Lemon Fluff for a refreshing dessert afterward. Serve warm with butter or jam for breakfast, or use them to make sliders for a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Yeast Rolls contains roughly 156 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but there's no need to dissolve it in warm liquid first. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients for a quicker rise.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to expired yeast or cold ingredients. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that your milk mixture is warm, not hot, when combining. You can also place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor of your rolls. Start with 1-2 teaspoons and adjust to your taste. This can transform your rolls into a delightful complement for savory 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).