Quick Surprise Rolls

Prep: 60 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Soft, fluffy rolls with a hint of sweetness and a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or as a side for any meal, appealing to all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 package yeast
  • 6 tablespoons soft shortening
  • 2 to 2 1/2 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Mix milk and yeast to dissolve.
  2. Add mashed potatoes, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add soft shortening and add flour gradually until the dough is easy to handle, using 2 to 2 1/2 cups.
  4. Knead well until smooth and elastic.
  5. Shape into desired shapes.
  6. Let rise until double in bulk, about 45 to 60 minutes.
  7. Bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For quicker prep, use leftover mashed potatoes from another meal. Ensure your milk is warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast effectively. If you don't have shortening, butter or margarine can be substituted, though it may alter the texture slightly. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs or spices into the dough. Serve these rolls warm with Crock-Pot Vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

These Quick Surprise Rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven. They pair wonderfully with soups, stews, and salads, making them a versatile side for any meal. Consider serving them alongside Grandma's Sand Cookies for a delightful contrast of flavors, or enjoy them with a spread of butter or jam for breakfast.

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, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This keeps them soft and fresh.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Quick Surprise Rolls contains roughly 156 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of potassium (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 945mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).

156 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.2g 8% DV
Total Fat 6.6g 8% DV
Carbs 20.3g 7% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 3.6g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 945.4mg 41% DV
Potassium 515.9mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 0.5mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.1mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 8.6mg 10% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 43.4mg 3% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but there's no need to dissolve it in milk first. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients. This can save you a bit of time and still yield fluffy rolls.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Avoid adding too much flour at once, as this can lead to dense rolls. Kneading the dough well will also help improve its texture.

How can I tell when the rolls are properly baked?

The rolls are properly baked when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, using a kitchen thermometer, an internal temperature of 190°F indicates they are fully cooked. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly depending on your 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).

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