Never Fail Yeast Rolls

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

These soft, fluffy yeast rolls are easy to make with a classic sweet and buttery flavor, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or casual gatherings.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup shortening
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 2 packages dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 eggs
  • 6 to 7 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon soda

Instructions

  1. Cream sugar and shortening until light and fluffy.
  2. Add boiling water, mixing thoroughly and set aside to cool.
  3. Dissolve yeast in warm water and add to the mixture.
  4. Add eggs, salt, baking powder, and soda.
  5. Gradually add flour to form a soft dough.
  6. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
  7. Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
  8. Shape into rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
  9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure your boiling water is hot enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it kills it. If you need a substitute for shortening, use an equal amount of unsalted butter. Make sure to knead the dough well for a light and fluffy texture. If the dough is too sticky, add flour gradually until you achieve the right consistency. Consider browsing more American recipes for similar baking ideas.

Serving Suggestions

These yeast rolls are perfect served warm with butter as a side to any meal. They pair beautifully with hearty soups or stews. Consider serving them alongside the Chocolate-Vanilla Rum Cake for a delightful dessert. You can also make mini sandwiches with them for a fun twist at your next gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Never Fail Yeast Rolls contains roughly 1722 calories, with 28g protein, 247g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (63% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1291mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).

1722 kcal 86% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 27.9g 56% DV
Total Fat 71.1g 91% DV
Carbs 246.7g 90% DV
Fiber 8.4g 30% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1291.1mg 56% DV
Potassium 1036.4mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 268.8mg 90% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 91.8mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 22.7mg 25% DV
Calcium 581.5mg 45% DV
Iron 11.4mg 63% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
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 use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of dry yeast. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to dissolve it in warm water first. This can save time and still yield excellent results for your rolls.

What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?

If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or a cold environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated. Try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising. If all else fails, you may need to start over.

Can I freeze the rolls after baking?

Absolutely! Once the rolls are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →