Extra Special Rolls
Soft, fluffy extra special rolls with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast or alongside a hearty meal, appealing to bread lovers and those craving homemade baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in 3 tablespoons of warm water in a large mixing bowl; let stand 5 minutes.
- Add sugar, melted shortening, beaten eggs, 1 cup warm water, salt, and 2 cups of flour.
- Beat at low speed on an electric mixer for 1 minute.
- Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead for 4 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
- Shape dough into a ball; place in a well-greased bowl, turning to grease the top.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place (85°F), free from drafts, for 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the warm water is around 110°F to activate the yeast effectively. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. Kneading is crucial; ensure the dough is smooth and elastic to achieve the perfect roll texture. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs or spices into the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Extra Special Rolls are perfect for family gatherings and pair wonderfully with hearty soups or stews. Serve them warm with butter for a delightful experience. They also make a great accompaniment to dishes like the Mint-Chocolate Chip Surprise for dessert, balancing sweet and savory flavors nicely. Consider serving with a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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, wrap rolls in aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Extra Special Rolls contains roughly 1012 calories, with 7g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2273mg per serving (99% 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 dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of dry yeast. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients without needing to dissolve it in warm water first. You may also reduce the amount slightly, as instant yeast is more potent.
How can I tell when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size. You can test it by gently pressing two fingers into the dough; if the indent remains, it's ready to shape. If it springs back, give it more time to rise.
What if my rolls don’t rise properly?
If your rolls don’t rise, it could be due to the yeast being expired or the environment being too cold. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warmer place, like near a warm oven or in a sunny spot.
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).