Easy Refrigerator Rolls
Soft, buttery refrigerator rolls with a light and fluffy texture, perfect for breakfast or as a side. Their mild sweetness and tender crumb make them a versatile choice for family meals, picnics, or holiday gatherings. Prepare ahead of time for fresh-baked bread whenever you desire.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water.
- Stir in sugar, salt, soft shortening, and egg.
- Mix in sifted all-purpose flour until the dough is easy to handle; no kneading needed.
- Grease the top of the dough and place it in the refrigerator.
- Shape the dough about 2 hours before serving.
- Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot, as this can kill the yeast. If you don’t have shortening, butter or margarine can be used as a substitute. This recipe is quite forgiving, so if your dough seems too sticky, gradually add more flour until manageable. Remember, no kneading is needed, making it a perfect choice alongside homemade rolls.
Serving Suggestions
These refrigerator rolls are fantastic served warm, slathered with butter or alongside your favorite soup or stew. They also pair beautifully with a hearty salad like cranberry salad squares or a comforting casserole. Consider serving them at family gatherings or holiday dinners for a delightful addition to your table.
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, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they remain soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Refrigerator Rolls contains roughly 431 calories, with 26g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value) and protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. This allows you to have fresh rolls ready with minimal last-minute effort. Just make sure to follow the resting period before baking to ensure they rise properly.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your water is warm, not hot, and check the expiration date on your yeast package. If the dough has not risen after an hour, it might be best to start over with fresh yeast for the best results.
Can I add flavors or fillings to the rolls?
Yes! You can easily customize these rolls by adding herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough. For a sweet version, consider folding in dried fruits or cinnamon sugar before shaping. Experimenting with flavors can create unique rolls that complement a variety of 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).