Oniony Dinner Rolls

Prep: 90 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 48 Cuisine: American

Soft, flavorful oniony dinner rolls with a hint of molasses and onion soup flavor, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a savory snack.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups warm water
  • 2 packages dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 1 envelope onion soup mix
  • 1 egg, well beaten
  • 6 cups unsifted flour
  • 6 tablespoons melted shortening

Instructions

  1. Measure warm water into a large bowl.
  2. Sprinkle in dry yeast and stir to dissolve.
  3. Add sugar, molasses, and onion soup mix.
  4. Add the beaten egg and 3 cups of flour, then beat well.
  5. Add melted shortening and remaining flour, then beat well.
  6. On a lightly floured board, knead the dough until smooth.
  7. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes. Punch down.
  8. Shape the dough into rolls.
  9. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
  10. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
  11. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter.
  12. Serve warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions to the dough. If you don't have molasses, brown sugar can be a suitable substitute, though it will alter the taste slightly. Ensure your water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. Kneading well is essential for good texture; you want the dough to be smooth and elastic.

Serving Suggestions

These Oniony Dinner Rolls are perfect as a side for soups, stews, or roasted meats. They pair beautifully with Grandma White's Pecan Pie for dessert. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a fresh salad or a hearty vegetable soup. Enjoy them warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Oniony Dinner Rolls contains roughly 61 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

61 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.9g 1% DV
Carbs 12.2g 4% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 268.5mg 12% DV
Potassium 138.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 26mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.1mg 3% DV
Calcium 28.4mg 2% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 instead of dry yeast. Simply add it directly to the flour mixture without the need for dissolving it in warm water first. The rolls may rise slightly faster, so keep an eye on them during the rising times.

What if I don't have onion soup mix?

If you don't have onion soup mix, you can create your own by combining dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and salt. About 1 tablespoon each of dried onion and garlic with a pinch of salt can mimic the flavor. Alternatively, finely chopped sautéed onions can be added for a fresh taste.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so start checking at the 15-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

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).

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