Molasses Rolls
Molasses rolls are soft, flavorful bread rolls with a rich molasses taste, perfect for cozy breakfasts or holiday gatherings, appealing to bread lovers and those craving sweet, yeasty treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, add 1/2 cup water and melt the shortening.
- Dissolve the yeast in 1/4 cup warm water.
- Add the yeast to the fat mixture along with the evaporated milk and molasses.
- Stir in the salt and soda; gradually beat in enough sifted flour to make a soft dough.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into 24 balls and place into two greased 9-inch round pans.
- Let the dough rise until doubled again.
- Brush the tops with a little molasses.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you don't have evaporated milk, regular milk or a non-dairy alternative can work as a substitute. To ensure a fluffy texture, make sure your yeast is fresh and active before adding it to the mixture. Kneading the dough well will also improve its structure and rise.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses rolls are delightful served warm with butter or honey. They pair beautifully with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes(Crock-Pot) for a comforting meal. Consider serving them alongside hearty soups or stews, or even as a base for sandwiches. For dessert, they complement the sweetness of dishes like Butternut Flavoring Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover molasses rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps retain their moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Rolls contains roughly 94 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
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 freeze molasses rolls?
Yes, you can freeze molasses rolls after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat as desired.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a similar texture and flavor. Using these alternatives may impart a slight taste change, but they will still yield delicious rolls.
How can I tell if the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has approximately doubled in size. You can perform the finger poke test: gently poke the dough with your finger; if the indentation stays and doesn't spring back, the dough has risen sufficiently and is ready for shaping.
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).