Parker House Rolls(From The Files Of Dessie Bell Hayes)

Prep: 60 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Soft, buttery Parker House Rolls with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for dinner tables, special occasions, or cozy weekend treats, offering warm comfort in every bite.

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Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1 yeast cake
  • 1 c. milk
  • 4 1/2 c. flour
  • 1/4 c. sugar
  • 3 Tbsp. shortening

Instructions

  1. Add sugar to the scalded milk and let it cool to lukewarm.
  2. Add yeast to the milk mixture and stir until smooth.
  3. Let the mixture stand for about 10 minutes to activate the yeast.
  4. Pour the mixture into a large bowl and add flour gradually, 1/2 cup at a time.
  5. Add 1/4 cup sugar, shortening, and salt to the bowl.
  6. Mix well, then turn the dough onto a floured board.
  7. Knead the dough until it is smooth.
  8. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
  9. Knead the risen dough again and shape into rolls.
  10. Place the rolls in greased muffin tins and let them rise again.
  11. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use fresh yeast and ensure your milk is just warm enough to activate the yeast without cooking it. If you don't have shortening, butter can be a great substitute for flavor. Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which will give your rolls a light and airy texture. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs or garlic powder into the dough.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful rolls warm, brushed with melted butter for an extra touch. They pair beautifully with soups, stews, or even Ohio Ham Loaf. For a more festive touch, consider serving them alongside a salad or as part of a brunch spread. These rolls also make excellent sandwiches when sliced.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a sealed bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and soft.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Parker House Rolls(From The Files Of Dessie Bell Hayes) contains roughly 530 calories, with 11g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

530 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.8g 22% DV
Total Fat 21.3g 27% DV
Carbs 72.7g 26% DV
Fiber 2.8g 10% DV
Sugar 2.1g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 182.9mg 8% DV
Potassium 213.9mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 0.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 32.5mg 3% DV
Iron 4.6mg 26% DV
Contains Milk 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 make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking to ensure proper rise and texture.

What can I do if my rolls are too dense?

Dense rolls often result from insufficient kneading or not allowing enough time for rising. Make sure to knead the dough until smooth and elastic, and always let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, substituting whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and increase the nutritional value. However, you may need to adjust the liquid content, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start with a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat for the best texture.

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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