Jail House Rolls

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

Soft, buttery homemade rolls with a tender crumb and golden crust, perfect for breakfast, dinner, or special occasions, appealing to bread lovers and comfort food fans.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. mashed potatoes
  • 1 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 2 sticks oleo, melted
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 3 whole eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 c. lukewarm water
  • 7 c. flour
  • 1 pkg. dry yeast

Instructions

  1. Mix dry yeast and lukewarm water; blend and set aside.
  2. Combine mashed potatoes, melted oleo, beaten eggs, salt, and sugar.
  3. Blend in the flour to form a dough.
  4. Add the yeast mixture and work all together until well blended.
  5. Put into a large greased bowl, cover with a cold damp cloth, and refrigerate until ready to make rolls.
  6. Punch down the dough and knead it.
  7. Put on a slightly floured board and roll out like biscuits, not too thin.
  8. Cut rolls with a biscuit cutter.
  9. Place on a greased pan, not too close together.
  10. Butter the tops of the rolls.
  11. Let rise until doubled in bulk and light, several hours.
  12. Bake in a 450°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For fluffier rolls, ensure your yeast is fresh and active before mixing with water. You can substitute the oleo with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor. If you don't have lukewarm water, gently heat it until it's warm to the touch but not hot. Adding a teaspoon of garlic powder to the dough can elevate the flavor, making it a fantastic side for dishes like Taco Biscuit Bites.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are perfect for serving alongside hearty soups or stews, adding a comforting touch to any meal. They pair beautifully with Sorrell Ridge Blueberry Muffins for a delightful brunch spread. Consider drizzling honey or serving with flavored butter for an extra treat. For a festive occasion, serve them with Rell'S Christmas Candy for a sweet finish.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftover Jail House Rolls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jail House Rolls contains roughly 325 calories, with 9g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), potassium (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 980mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

325 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.7g 17% DV
Total Fat 5.9g 8% DV
Carbs 59.5g 22% DV
Fiber 3.5g 13% DV
Sugar 0.3g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 980mg 43% DV
Potassium 745.5mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 51.6mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 12.1mg 13% DV
Calcium 68.4mg 5% DV
Iron 2.6mg 14% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal 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 in advance and freeze it?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and freeze it after the first rise. Shape the rolls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and rise until doubled before baking.

What if my rolls don't rise properly?

If your rolls don't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or an incorrect water temperature. Always check the expiration date on the yeast and ensure the water is warm, not hot. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warm spot or using the oven's proofing setting to encourage rising.

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

Absolutely! You can mix in shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even spices to enhance the flavor of your rolls. Adding ingredients like grated Parmesan or fresh rosemary can create a delicious twist. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as it may slightly affect the dough's 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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