Grandmother Michaels' Icebox Rolls

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

Grandmother Michaels' Icebox Rolls are soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread rolls perfect for family dinners or special occasions, with a classic homemade flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 4 cups warm water
  • 1 package RapidRise yeast
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2/3 cup shortening
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • approximately 4 pounds flour

Instructions

  1. Mix together warm water and yeast and let stand.
  2. While the yeast mixture is standing, mix sugar, egg, shortening, and salt.
  3. Cream the mixture well and then add the yeast mixture.
  4. Add approximately 4 cups of flour and beat with an electric mixer until smooth.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast effectively. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter. To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough. If you prefer a whole grain option, replace a portion of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.

Serving Suggestions

These icebox rolls are perfect for serving alongside hearty soups or stews. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Tortellini Vegetable Salad Made Easy, or can be enjoyed with butter and jam for a delightful breakfast. Consider adding them to your holiday table for a warm, welcoming touch.

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, wrap rolls in aluminum foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandmother Michaels' Icebox Rolls contains roughly 1174 calories, with 19g protein, 217g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (46% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

1174 kcal 59% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.8g 38% DV
Total Fat 28.3g 36% DV
Carbs 216.9g 79% DV
Fiber 3.2g 11% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1163.6mg 51% DV
Potassium 1437.4mg 31% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 151.2mcg 17% DV
Vitamin C 15.5mg 17% DV
Calcium 597.7mg 46% DV
Iron 5.3mg 30% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Once mixed, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise before shaping into rolls.

What should I do if my rolls don't rise?

If your rolls don't rise, check the temperature of your yeast mixture; it should be warm, not hot. If the yeast is expired or inactive, it may not work. Always perform a 'proofing' test by mixing yeast with a little sugar and warm water before starting the recipe.

Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese or fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your icebox rolls. Just be mindful of the additional moisture these ingredients may introduce, and adjust your flour amount accordingly to maintain 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).

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