Old-Timey School Yeast Rolls
Old-Timey School Yeast Rolls are soft, fluffy bread rolls with a hint of richness from Crisco and powdered milk, perfect for family dinners or nostalgic breakfasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt Crisco in 1/4 cup water; let cool.
- Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water.
- Mix dry ingredients together, then add Crisco mixture.
- Add yeast mixture and mix well.
- Fold in eggs and knead thoroughly.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles in bulk; punch down and let rise again.
- Divide the dough into rolls.
- Let the rolls rise and then bake at 400°F until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot when dissolving the yeast, as excessive heat can kill it. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter or vegetable oil can be substituted. For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These yeast rolls are perfect as a side for any meal and pair beautifully with Refrigerator Potatoes. Serve them warm with butter or alongside a hearty stew or soup. They also make delightful sandwiches when split open. For a sweet treat, try them with a smear of jam or honey.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag for up to three months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Timey School Yeast Rolls contains roughly 269 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% 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 active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients without dissolving it first. The rolls may rise slightly faster, so keep an eye on the dough during the rising stages.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn't rising, check the freshness of your yeast. If it's expired, it won't activate properly. Also, make sure your rising environment is warm, as cold temperatures can hinder yeast activity. Consider placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area or near a warm oven.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor of your rolls. Start with about a teaspoon of dried herbs mixed into the dry ingredients. You can also experiment with spices like garlic powder or onion powder for a savory twist.
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).