Helen'S Refrigerator Rolls
Helen's Refrigerator Rolls are soft, fluffy, and buttery, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Easy to prepare ahead and enjoy fresh, warm rolls anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour warm milk and water into a large mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle dry yeast over the liquids and stir well to dissolve.
- Add sugar, salt, and well-beaten egg to the mixture and stir.
- Sift flour once before measuring, then add 3 cups of flour to the mixture and beat well by hand.
- Add melted shortening and stir until combined.
- Mix in the remaining 3 cups of flour and knead enough by hand in the bowl until the dough is smooth.
- Allow the dough to rise in a well-greased bowl until about double in size, approximately 2 hours in a warm place.
- Work down the dough and place it in a well-greased bowl, then cover and refrigerate until ready to use, about 1 week.
- When ready to bake, drop portions of dough into well-greased muffin tins, cover, and let rise again until doubled.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be substituted in equal amounts. To speed up the rising process, place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area. If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or using whole milk instead of skim.
Serving Suggestions
Helen's Refrigerator Rolls are delightful served warm with butter or alongside soups and stews. They pair beautifully with Lemon Chess Pie for a perfect meal ending. Consider serving them at brunch with eggs or as a side to your favorite main dish. They also make a great addition to holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
These rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Helen'S Refrigerator Rolls contains roughly 335 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (18% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 480mg per serving (21% 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 active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to dissolve it in the warm liquids before adding to the mixture. This will help ensure it activates properly for a good rise.
How can I tell when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels airy. You can gently press two fingers into the dough; if the indentation remains, it's ready for the next step.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to a week before baking. This makes it convenient for gatherings, as you can bake fresh rolls right before serving.
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).