Easy Refrigerator Yeast Rolls
Soft, fluffy refrigerator yeast rolls with a hint of sweetness, perfect for breakfast or dinner. Easy to prepare ahead and ideal for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over shortening, sugar, and salt. Blend and cool.
- Add beaten eggs to the mixture.
- Sprinkle yeast into warm water and stir until dissolved, then add to the mixture.
- Add flour and blend well to form a dough.
- Cover and place in refrigerator for at least 5 hours.
- Three hours before using, roll dough into desired shape, using extra flour to make it easy to handle.
- Place in a greased pan and allow to rise at room temperature for 3 hours or until double in size.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, allow the dough to rise in the refrigerator for the full 5 hours, as this enhances flavor and texture. If you don't have RapidRise yeast, you can use regular active dry yeast, but be sure to activate it in warm water first. If you're short on time, try using a stand mixer to knead the dough quickly.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Refrigerator Yeast Rolls are perfect alongside hearty dishes like pot roast or as a base for sliders. Serve them warm with butter or garlic herb spread for a delightful addition to your meal. They also pair beautifully with Quick Luscious Potatoes for a complete dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Refrigerator Yeast Rolls contains roughly 142 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% 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 and freeze it?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared dough after the first rise. Shape the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before letting them rise at room temperature.
Why did my rolls not rise properly?
If your rolls did not rise, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and make sure the water used for activation is warm, not hot. Additionally, ensure the dough is covered tightly to prevent it from drying out during the rising period.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a heartier roll with more fiber. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture, so you may need to adjust the water slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
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).