Easy Light Rolls
Light and fluffy rolls with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or dinner tables. Their subtle sweetness and soft texture suit any meal or occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine Crisco, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Pour boiling milk into the mixture and stir until dissolved. Allow to cool.
- Soften yeast in warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- Add the softened yeast mixture to the cooled liquid ingredients.
- Add beaten egg and flour to the mixture, stirring thoroughly.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape into rolls.
- Let the rolls rise again until doubled in size.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your milk is boiling before mixing it with the Crisco, sugar, and salt. If you have it on hand, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier roll. You can substitute butter for Crisco for a richer flavor, or use a vegan margarine for a dairy-free option. Adding herbs or garlic powder can enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect as a side for hearty meals like the Make Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole or paired with soups and salads. Serve them warm with butter or alongside jams for a delightful breakfast treat. They also make fantastic sandwiches, so feel free to use them for your favorite fillings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Light Rolls contains roughly 120 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% 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 use instant yeast. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients without dissolving it in water first. The rolls may rise slightly quicker, so keep an eye on them during the rising stages.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If the dough doesn't rise, it could be due to expired yeast or insufficient warmth. Make sure your milk is hot but not boiling when activating the yeast, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area. If needed, you can also place it in a slightly warmed oven.
How can I make these rolls more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider mixing in herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough. You can also add grated cheese or spices like garlic powder for a savory twist. Sweet variations with cinnamon or nutmeg can also be delicious if you prefer a sweeter roll.
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).