Plain Roll Dough
Soft, fluffy plain rolls with a tender crumb and light crust, perfect for breakfast or alongside a meal. Their mild flavor makes them versatile for sweet or savory fillings. Ideal for bakers of all skill levels seeking a classic homemade bread that pairs well with butter, jam, or hearty dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften yeast in warm water and set aside.
- Combine scalded milk, sugar, salt, and shortening; let cool to lukewarm.
- Add 1 cup of flour and beat well.
- Mix in the yeast and beaten egg.
- Add remaining flour and mix well.
- Cover and let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape into rolls, bread, or cinnamon rolls as desired.
- Let the shaped dough rise for about 20 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F until golden brown.
- Brush with butter after baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it in warm water before mixing. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. You can also experiment with half whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Be careful not to over-knead the dough to keep the rolls fluffy. For a twist, consider adding spices or herbs for flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These plain rolls are perfect for serving alongside soups, stews, or as a base for sliders. They can also be enjoyed with homemade jams or butter for breakfast. Consider pairing them with 1000 Island Dressing for a delicious twist on a sandwich. For a complete meal, serve them with Louisiana Pecan Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Roll Dough contains roughly 165 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 716mg per serving (31% 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 dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for dry yeast. Use the same amount, but you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to soften it first. This can save you time and still yield delicious rolls.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to old yeast or a cold environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warm spot, like an oven with the light on. If all else fails, you can start over or use the dough for flatbreads instead.
How can I make these rolls sweeter?
To increase the sweetness of the rolls, you can add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the dough. Additionally, consider brushing the tops with a sweet glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking for a delightful finish.
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).