Cousin Dora Zimmerman'S Icebox Rolls
Cousin Dora Zimmerman's Icebox Rolls are soft, fluffy yeast rolls with a hint of potato for added moisture and flavor, perfect for breakfast or dinner gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add the yeast cake to warm milk and water; let stand until foamy.
- Make a soft dough by combining the foamy yeast mixture with flour, sugar, salt, shortening, and mashed potatoes.
- Work the dough down and shape into rolls.
- Place the rolls in the icebox and let them rest until the next day.
- Make out a few rolls each day until all are used.
- Bake at 375°F until done.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your icebox rolls turn out soft and fluffy, use fresh yeast and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter for a richer flavor. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or herbs like rosemary can elevate the taste. For a sweeter version, consider sprinkling cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These icebox rolls are perfect alongside hearty soups or stews, making them a great pairing with your favorite chili or vegetable soup. Serve warm with a pat of butter for added richness. They also complement dishes like Texas Tarts or can be enjoyed with a sweet spread like honey or jam for breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for about 15-20 seconds per roll until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cousin Dora Zimmerman'S Icebox Rolls contains roughly 2515 calories, with 42g protein, 320g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2807mg per serving (122% 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 a yeast cake?
Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute for a yeast cake. Use about 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast, and you won't need to let it sit in the warm milk and water. Simply mix it with the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe as directed.
What if my dough doesn't rise properly?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to the yeast being old or the liquids being too hot or too cold. Make sure to check the expiration date of your yeast and ensure the liquids are warm but not scalding. If the dough still doesn’t rise, you might have to start over with new ingredients.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best features of icebox rolls is that they can be prepared in advance. After shaping the rolls, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just take them out and let them rise a bit before baking, ensuring fresh rolls whenever you need them.
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).