Mrs. Ruth O'Neal'S Famous Yeast Roll Recipe
Soft, buttery yeast rolls with a hint of sweet milk and a golden crust—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting side at any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water and add lukewarm milk.
- Add sugar and salt to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Add softened shortening and beaten egg, mixing thoroughly.
- Gradually stir in flour, then knead until the dough becomes soft and smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1½ to 2 hours.
- Punch down the dough, divide into rolls, and shape.
- Place rolls in greased muffin tins or on a flat sheet, cover, and let rise again for 1 to 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake rolls until golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your milk and water are lukewarm—too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold will slow down the rising process. If you don't have Crisco, butter or margarine can be substituted. For a sweeter roll, consider adding a tablespoon of honey. Kneading should be done gently until the dough is soft and elastic, which enhances the texture.
Serving Suggestions
These yeast rolls are perfect served warm alongside a hearty meal or as a base for sliders. They pair beautifully with dishes like beef stew or creamy soups. For a delightful dessert, enjoy them with a smear of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or try serving with Cherry Nut Ice Cream for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap rolls in aluminum foil and place in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Ruth O'Neal'S Famous Yeast Roll Recipe contains roughly 197 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), potassium (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2253mg per serving (98% 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 instant yeast instead of a yeast cake?
Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute. Use about 2¼ teaspoons of instant yeast in place of one yeast cake. Simply add it directly to the flour mixture without dissolving it in water first.
What should I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, make sure your yeast is fresh. If it is, check the temperature of your liquids; they should be lukewarm. If everything seems correct, try placing the dough in a warmer spot, like an oven set to the lowest temperature, or near a warm stove.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature and complete the second rise before shaping and baking.
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).