Mrs. Smearly'S Potato Rolls
Soft and tender Mrs. Smearly's Potato Rolls are delightfully fluffy, with a subtle hint of potato flavor that elevates their richness. Perfect for breakfast, dinner rolls, or special occasions, these versatile rolls are sure to please family and guests alike with their warm, comforting taste and inviting aroma.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the dry yeast in warm water.
- Combine mashed potatoes, shortening, sugar, salt, and scalded milk in a bowl.
- Allow the mixture to cool to lukewarm temperature.
- Add the softened yeast and egg to the mixture.
- Stir in sifted flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
- Knead on a floured board until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease all sides.
- Cover and let rise for 1 hour, then punch down the dough.
- Form the dough into a ball and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Roll out on a floured board and shape into rolls or cut as desired.
- Place the shaped rolls on a greased pan and let rest for 1 hour.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For fluffier rolls, make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and lump-free. You can also substitute butter for shortening if desired. If you don't have dry yeast, use active dry yeast but activate it in warm water first. Adjust the flour gradually; you may need slightly less or more depending on humidity. Always check for a smooth, elastic dough consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These potato rolls are perfect for serving alongside hearty dishes like Good Old Green Bean Casserole or as a base for sliders. They can also be enjoyed with butter and honey for a sweet treat. Consider pairing them with soups or salads for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover potato rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Smearly'S Potato Rolls contains roughly 108 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg 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 make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just punch it down and shape the rolls when you're ready to bake. Let them rise again before baking. This method can enhance the flavor as well.
What can I use instead of mashed potatoes?
If you don't have mashed potatoes, you can use sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, replace them with 1/2 cup of instant potato flakes mixed with water to achieve a similar texture.
Why did my rolls not rise properly?
Insufficient rising can be due to several factors, including expired yeast or too cold of an environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly. Also, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising.
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).