Grandpa'S Rolls

Prep: 180 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Grandpa's Rolls are soft, fluffy yeast rolls with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting side dish. Their golden crust and tender interior make them a timeless favorite.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. dry yeast
  • 1 cup lukewarm water
  • 1/4 cup shortening
  • 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 1/2 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cream sugar and shortening in a mixing bowl.
  2. Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water and add to the mixture.
  3. Add salt and flour to the mixture.
  4. Mix well until combined.
  5. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise until about double in size, approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
  6. Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for about 2 minutes.
  7. Let the dough rise again until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
  8. Divide the dough into small balls about the size of a walnut.
  9. Place 3 balls in each cup of a greased cupcake pan.
  10. Let the rolls rise until about double in size.
  11. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the shortening with butter. Ensure the water is lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. If you're short on time, you can skip the second rise, but the rolls will be denser. For added sweetness, try adding a touch of honey to the dough. This recipe pairs beautifully with Mary Ellen'S Supper Rolls for a delightful bread spread.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are perfect as a side for soups and stews or served warm with butter. They also pair nicely with a sweet spread like Brandied Peach Marmalade for breakfast or brunch. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a hearty salad or as an accompaniment to your favorite main dish. They are versatile enough to enhance any gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, to restore their fluffy texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandpa'S Rolls contains roughly 211 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

211 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.9g 2% DV
Total Fat 20.1g 26% DV
Carbs 7.8g 3% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 590.1mg 26% DV
Potassium 51mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 6.1mg 7% DV
Calcium 5.8mg
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains 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 use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast! Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without dissolving it in water first. The rising time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the dough to ensure it doubles in size.

What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?

If the dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or too cold of an environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warm spot, like an oven with the light on, to encourage rising.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and rise again before shaping and baking for the best results.

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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