Esther'S Rolls
Soft, buttery rolls with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a side. Their fluffy texture and golden crust make them a family favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the yeast cake, salt, melted shortening, and sugar in a large bowl.
- Add 1 cup of warm water, the egg, and flour. Mix well until a dough forms.
- Let the dough rise in a warm area until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough to release air.
- Shape into rolls or refrigerate for later use.
- Let the shaped rolls rise a second time until puffy.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough. If you don't have a yeast cake, you can substitute with 2 1/4 tsp of active dry yeast. Ensure your water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. For a softer roll, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions
Esther's Rolls are delightful served warm with butter or honey. They pair wonderfully with soups and salads, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Consider serving them alongside a hearty dish like the Upside-Down Surprise Cake for dessert to create a comforting dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Esther'S Rolls contains roughly 214 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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 these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. When you're ready to bake, simply shape the rolls and allow them to rise again before baking. This allows for fresh rolls with minimal last-minute effort.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough isn't rising, it might be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your water temperature is warm, around 110°F. If the dough still doesn't rise after a while, try placing it in a warmer spot or using a proofing box.
Can I add ingredients like herbs or cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for added flavor. Shredded cheese can also be mixed in for cheesy rolls. Just be mindful of adjusting the flour slightly if adding wet ingredients.
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).